World Population Day

World Population Day History

World Population Day is an annual event with the aim of raising awareness about the growing global population and the challenges it brings forth, including gender inequality, poverty, maternal health, and human rights. This observance not only emphasizes the need for family planning, but also highlights the essential role governments and organizations must play in addressing these critical issues. By engaging in discussions and educating people on sustainable development, World Population Day encourages collective action that can lead to improved conditions for all.

The origin of World Population Day can be traced back to 1987, when the global population reached the milestone of 5 billion people. Recognizing the potential social, economic, and environmental impacts of overpopulation, the United Nations General Assembly established this day to focus worldwide attention on the problem. With a population of over 206 million people and projections of becoming the world's third most populous country by 2050, Nigeria faces significant challenges, including a high rate of unemployment, poor public infrastructure, and an increased demand for adequate health care, education, and housing services.

In Nigeria, World Population Day is observed through a range of activities, such as educational outreach, seminars, workshops, and public campaigns to increase awareness on the importance of family planning. Government institutions and non-governmental organizations often organize events that highlight the significance of sustainable population growth and the well-being of individuals, especially women and girls. World Population Day is observed annually on July 11th. By participating World Population Day, Nigerians play a crucial role in addressing the challenges posed by a growing population and fostering a better future for generations to come.

World Population Day facts

• The theme for World Population Day in 2023 was 8 Billion Lives, Infinite Possibilities: The case for rights and choices.
  The theme in for World Population Day in 2022 was A world of 8 billion: Towards a resilient future for all - harnessing opportunities and ensuring rights and choices for all.
• The annual growth rate of the world's population peaked at 2.1% in 1962 and since been decreasing. It is estimated that by the year 2100, the population will slow to 0.06% annual growth.
• Nigeria's population growth rate is one of the highest globally, at about 2.5% per year. The population is expected to reach around 401 million people by 2050, making it the third most populous country in the world.
• The literacy rate in Nigeria is relatively low, with only 62% of the population aged 15 and older being able to read and write. The literacy rate is significantly higher for males (69.2%) than females (54.7%).

In the News and Trending in Nigeria for World Population Day

Top things to do in Nigeria for World Population Day

• Reduce your carbon footprint to slow global warming and pollution. Walk instead of driving, use energy saving light bulbs, carpool with others, turn down the AC/heat when you are not home, and reuse and recycle paper, bottles, and plastics.
• Spread the word about birth control methods. Over half of the pregnancies every year in the US are unplanned and could have been prevented by birth control methods such as pills, rings, IUDs and condoms.
• Watch October 1 (2014), a Nigerian film set in 1960, following a police officer investigating a string of murders just before Nigeria's Independence Day. The film provides a snapshot of Nigeria's population and culture at a pivotal moment in its history.
• Read a book to learn more about the population of Nigeria. Here are some suggestions:
  1. Nigeria: A New History of a Turbulent Century by Richard Bourne
  2. Nigeria: Dancing on the Brink by John Campbell
  3. Nigeria: The Political Economy of Oil by Anthony Goldman