Nigeria's Population Estimated at 240 Million in 2023

Nigeria's population is currently estimated at 240 million, a significant increase from the last census in 2006, which recorded 140 million. The United Nations Population Fund (UNPF) emphasizes the importance of conducting a national population census every ten years to support socio-economic development.

The country’s population growth rate is approximately 3.2%, with a fertility rate of 5.3 children per woman, leading to projections of 262 million by 2030. Dr. Osagie Ehanire, former Minister of Health, noted that the rising population adversely affects the quality of life for Nigerians, particularly due to poor family planning, which contributes to a high rate of unwanted pregnancies.

The National Population Commission (NPC) relies heavily on demographic estimates, and the last official census was conducted in 2006. The article underscores the critical need for accurate population data to address the socio-economic challenges facing Nigeria.