Implications of a rapidly growing Nigerian population: a review of literature

Kolawole E. Odusina, Joseph Ayo Babalola University

This paper examined the Nigerian population situation with specific reference to its history and growth by reviewing the available literature and documents. It discussed efforts made by different governments as regard population policies to influence demographic variables, increase welfare and standard of living of people and why these policies were ineffective. The paper also discussed the possible consequences/implications of an unchecked rapidly growing Nigerian population and suggested ways of reducing its growth to pave way for rapid socio-economic development and achievement of the Millennium Development Goals. KEYWORDS: Nigerian population, Population policies, Population growth, Population census.