Juliet Jacob 
ABUJA, NIGERIA – Rivers, Cross River, and Ondo States have recorded Nigeria’s lowest fertility rates, according to the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) 2023–2024.
The data shows that women in Rivers State have an average of 2.9 children, followed by Cross River (3.0) and Ondo (3.1) — all below the national average.
Other states with low fertility include the FCT (3.2), Lagos (3.2), Akwa Ibom (3.3), Osun (3.3), Oyo (3.3), Edo (3.3), and Benue (3.5).
The NDHS, conducted by the National Population Commission (NPC) with international partners, defines the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) as the average number of children a woman would bear if current age-specific fertility rates persist.
Experts say the figures reflect improved access to family planning, urbanisation, and increased female education in southern states.
“The trend suggests Nigeria is gradually shifting toward smaller family sizes, particularly in urban areas,” a demographer involved in the survey noted.
The NDHS provides critical insights for national planning, helping policymakers strengthen reproductive health, gender equality, and maternal services.
About the Author
Oluwafunbi Bello 
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