Population Growth and Urbanisation in Nigeria.

This paper examines the impact of population growth on urbanization in Nigeria. The paper argues that the most basic fact about urbanization in Nigeria from the 1991 census data and projectionsis the increase in the number of urban centres all over the country. In addition, to the increase in the number of urban centres, the proportion of people living in these centres also increased tremendously.The high concentration and rapid increase of population in urban areas is both a cause and effect of the strain placed on the few and inadequate social services in the towns. An examination of the future relationship between population and urbanization strongly demonstrates the need for well articulated urban policy to guide urban growth in the country. This becomes very urgent when it is recalled that the existing cities are already facing problems of chaotic traffic congestion, unhygienic sewage disposal system, inadequate social services, environmental pollution, slums and poverty. The solution to the problems of rapid urbanization and its consequences should be approached at three levels: the rural areas, medium sized towns and the cities. The development of rural areas-through provision of amenities and by stimulating income generating activities will reduce the attractiveness of urban areas and reduce the rate of rural exodus.