Harry Archie
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) says many young Nigerians are delaying marriage because of financial difficulties and the high cost of housing.
Speaking during the 2026 World Population Day celebration, UNFPA Nigeria Representative, Muriel Mafiko, said a survey by the agency found that most young people still want to get married and have children.
However, many cannot achieve these goals because of unemployment, low incomes, expensive housing, insecurity, and limited access to quality education and healthcare.
She explained that these challenges make it difficult for young people to plan their future with confidence.
According to Mafiko, many people believe today’s youth are no longer interested in marriage or starting families, but the survey shows otherwise.
Most respondents said they want to marry, while many also said having two children is their ideal family size. However, they worry about whether they can afford a home and provide for a family.
She said governments should support young people by investing in affordable healthcare, family support programmes, parental leave, childcare, and other policies that give them more opportunities and security.
Mafiko added that Nigeria’s young population is one of the country’s greatest strengths.
She said empowering young people with education, skills, and opportunities will help them build better futures.
Also speaking, Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), Dr. Aminu Yusuf, said about 70 per cent of Nigeria’s population is under the age of 30.
He said this large youth population offers great opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, technology, and economic growth.
However, he stressed that these benefits can only be achieved if young people are given the right support and opportunities.
