Military Personnel as a Percentage of Population in Nigeria, 1987-2016

In Nigeria, the proportion of military personnel relative to the population remained consistently low from 1987 to 2016. Beginning at 0.1% in 1987, this rate held steady through 2010, reflecting a stable approach to military staffing despite periods of regional unrest and internal challenges. In 2011, this figure dropped to 0.0% and stayed at that level through 2016, likely signaling a shift in focus toward civilian-led initiatives and internal security reforms. This trend underscores Nigeria’s preference for leveraging non-military strategies to address social and economic issues, aligning its defense posture with broader priorities for national development and stability.