Demographic and economic characteristics of urban households in Nigeria.

This study aimed to generate a baseline data on the demographic and economic characteristics of urban households in Nigeria and examine the implications of these data on the quality of life of the people. The survey collected information from 5044 households in 35 urban centers distributed over 18 states and the federal capital Abuja. Results indicate that distribution of age shows a much higher proportion of the population in the younger than the older age groups. It was also found that there is a tendency to terminate the education of females at the secondary school level while males are encouraged to go on to the university level. 40% accepted that having six children or more is excessive which is an indication that people are beginning to approve of small family size. A very high level of awareness of contraception among men in urban centers was found as more than 9 in 10 respondents knew at least one method of contraception. Finally two-thirds of the respondents maintained that the quality of life of an average Nigerian is deteriorating. Recommendations based on these findings are cited.