The Impact of Population Growth in West Africa : The Nigerian Outlook

The global population in recent times has rapidly increased despite several untoward situations and factors. However, population growth—as excessive and unsustainable—is only affecting specific areas. Countries like Japan, Latvia, Bulgaria, and Italy, and many others face a reverse situation. Following this, researchers have hypothesized that population size is a crucial factor in measuring environmental impact. This study provides an overview of the environmental impact of population growth in Africa regarding Nigeria. An examination of the general population impact in Africa shows negative interactions of high population growth and unsustainable development, suggesting that the continent's population growth can pressure the environment, making it difficult to maintain its natural order. In Nigeria, concerns have been raised about the potential for overpopulation and population growth's increasing impact on its ecological carrying capacity and available natural resources. It is understood that the reduction of the population growth rate can assist in development that can provide essential services and improve poverty eradication policies. The study recommends that the federal government embark on an intensive awareness program to educate the general populace on the effects of an uncontrolled population growth rate on resources and the environment. An effective birth-control system is also advised to help manage the birth rate while developing a comprehensive population policy for sustainable development with population growth rate management as one of its critical policy Agenda for Nigeria