Nigeria's Youth: Unlocking Economic Potential for Growth

Nigeria, with an estimated population exceeding 238 million, is Africa's most populous nation and the sixth globally. Approximately 70% of Nigerians are under 30 years old, positioning the country at a crucial juncture to either leverage its youthful population for economic growth or face potential unemployment and social unrest.

This was the central theme at the 2026 World Population Day commemoration in Abuja, attended by government officials, lawmakers, the National Population Commission (NPC), United Nations agencies, and civil society organizations. The event's theme, “Realising the Hopes and Aspirations of Young People: Today and for the Future,” focused on converting Nigeria's demographic advantage into a demographic dividend through quality investments in education, skills, healthcare, and job creation.

Dr. Aminu Yusuf, Chairman of the NPC, emphasized that population statistics reflect real people with aspirations and challenges, influencing national development across various sectors.