Nigeria's Total Population from 1990 to 2023

The chart highlights a consistent and remarkable increase in Nigeria's population over the past three decades. In 1990, Nigeria's population stood at approximately 95.2 million. By 2023, this figure had more than doubled, reaching 223.8 million, representing an average annual growth rate of around 2.5%. This sustained growth is largely driven by a combination of high fertility rates and improvements in healthcare, which have contributed to a reduction in mortality rates and an overall rise in life expectancy.

A key driver of this population increase has been Nigeria's persistently high fertility rate, which has remained above global averages for many years. For instance, during the early 2000s, the population saw notable growth, jumping from 122.8 million in 2000 to 152.3 million in 2008. Despite economic challenges and efforts to promote family planning, birth rates have remained high, while advances in healthcare have helped lower child mortality, further contributing to population growth.

Urbanization and internal migration have also played significant roles in shaping Nigeria’s demographic expansion. As the population increased from 165.4 million in 2011 to 198.3 million by 2018, more individuals moved from rural to urban areas in search of better employment opportunities, exacerbating pressure on infrastructure and social services in cities. This migration trend has been a critical factor in Nigeria's rapid urban population growth.

Nigeria's position as Africa's most populous country comes with both opportunities and challenges. While the growing population presents a substantial labor force and consumer base, it also raises concerns about sustainable development, economic pressures, and resource allocation. With 223.8 million people in 2023, the country faces increasing demands on education, healthcare, and employment services, making strategic planning crucial to managing future growth.