The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has released survey findings indicating that a significant number of Nigerian youths remain single not by choice but due to severe economic and housing constraints. The survey, conducted across the country, highlights that while young people aspire to marry and have children, barriers such as unemployment, underemployment, rising living and housing costs, insecurity, and unequal access to quality education and healthcare are forcing them to delay or abandon these plans.
Youth Aspirations Thwarted by Economic Realities
Speaking during the commemoration of the 2026 World Population Day, UNFPA’s Nigeria Resident Representative, Muriel Mafiko, emphasized that the common assumption that younger generations have given up on marriage and children is false. “Our survey tells a different story. Most respondents say their ideal relationship involves marriage, yet among those who want a partner, many are single with economic and housing constraints, the most commonly cited barriers,” she stated.
Mafiko added that the survey also found that most young Nigerians want children, with two being the ideal family size across many regions. However, uncertainty about their ability to secure housing and provide for a family is the primary reason they question whether they can start the families they desire. “It is uncertainty, not unwillingness, that has young people questioning whether they can start the families they want,” she explained.
Role of Government and Policy
Mafiko called on governments to respond proactively to these demographic trends. She noted that many governments worldwide are exploring policies to address low fertility and ageing populations, but stressed that young people need a sense of security to plan for their future. “With smart, forward-looking, inclusive investments that protect their rights and expand their choices, from family and health care to parental leave and childcare support, young people in all their diversities and all their abilities can exercise autonomy over their bodies and lives and build the futures they want,” she said.
The UNFPA representative also highlighted that one of Nigeria’s greatest assets is its youth knowledge and potential. When young people are empowered to innovate, develop resilience, and thrive, creating conditions that allow them to make real choices will ensure a brighter future for the nation.
Demographic Dividend at Risk
On his part, the Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), Dr. Aminu Yusuf, provided a stark demographic context. He revealed that approximately 70 per cent of Nigeria’s population is under the age of 30. “The size of the youth population presents immense opportunities for innovation, productivity, entrepreneurship, technological advancement, social transformation, and economic growth. It makes our young people one of our greatest national assets and one of the most important determinants of our future development trajectory,” Yusuf stated.
However, he warned that a youthful population does not automatically translate into a demographic dividend. Without addressing the economic and housing challenges that hinder young people from forming families and contributing fully to society, the potential benefits could be lost. The NPC chief called for targeted policies to harness the energy and aspirations of Nigeria’s youth.
Broader Implications for Nigeria’s Future
The UNFPA survey underscores a growing crisis that threatens not only individual life plans but also the country’s long-term social and economic stability. With young people facing mounting obstacles, the dream of a prosperous, family-oriented society is slipping away. The findings serve as a call to action for policymakers, community leaders, and international partners to invest in youth empowerment, affordable housing, job creation, and accessible healthcare.
As Nigeria’s population continues to grow, the need for sustainable solutions becomes more urgent. The survey’s insights provide a roadmap for addressing the root causes of delayed marriage and childbearing, potentially unlocking the demographic dividend that could propel the nation forward.
