Determinants of fertility in Nigeria: An analysis of recent data

Abstract: Despite the continuous decline in fertility since the 1950s, several African nations, including Nigeria, have continued to experience population growth. Previous research has concentrated on how socioeconomic and fertility-related factors influence fertility outcomes in developing countries. It is crucial to understand the dynamics of fertility in Nigeria, a country with rapid population growth, to lower the total fertility rate (TFR), particularly in regions prone to rapid population expansion, which in turn affects the rate of development. This study sought to examine the factors influencing fertility outcomes in Nigeria. Using zero-inflated Poisson regression models, this study examined recent data from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) to determine the factors with the greatest influence on fertility in the country. The findings indicate that the sociodemographic and economic characteristics of women influence their fertility. In addition, proximate factors such as contraceptive use, marital status, and abortion were also significantly associated with fertility. Recommendations are made to the government, policymakers, and local stakeholders to maintain a national policy for citizens and development that aims to improve the education of young girls and extend their ages at first sex (and, consequently, their ages at first birth) through extended schooling. Finally, greater emphasis should be placed on promoting knowledge of the use of contraceptives.