The 2023–24 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) indicates a significant decline in Nigeria’s fertility rate, with an average of 4.8 births per woman, compared to 6.3 in 2008.
The findings, released by the NDHS in Abuja, underscore advancements in family planning awareness across the country, though disparities in fertility rates persist between urban and rural communities.
This trend reflects Nigeria's gradual shift towards smaller family sizes, driven by increased awareness and access to reproductive health resources.
It indicates that fertility rates are notably higher in rural areas than in urban regions, with rural women bearing an average of 5.6 children, while urban women have 3.9 children on average.
These figures underscore the need for expanded reproductive health services in rural communities.
The report also shows variations in fertility rates across the country.
The survey shows that the Northeast records the highest rate at 6.1 children per woman, with the Northwest closely following at 5.9.
“In contrast, the South-South region has the lowest fertility rate at 3.3, highlighting distinct demographic trends within the country,” it said.
Adolescent fertility remains an area of concern, as Nigerian youths continue to face early pregnancy risks.