What economic factor contributes to the high birth rate in Nigeria?

The high birth rate in Nigeria can be largely attributed to the prevalence of poverty, which affects family resources. In many cases, families facing economic hardship may view having more children as a means of economic support. Children can contribute to the family's income, whether through labor or by providing care for younger siblings, thereby enhancing the family's economic situation in a context where formal employment and support systems may be lacking. Additionally, in environments where social security systems are minimal or nonexistent, families might opt to have more children to ensure that some survive into adulthood and can care for the parents in their later years.

The other factors listed might positively influence population dynamics, but they do not directly correlate with the high birth rates in the same way poverty does. High levels of education are often associated with lower birth rates due to improved family planning awareness. Meanwhile, better availability of healthcare services usually leads to lower infant mortality rates, which can contribute to families choosing to have fewer children. Lastly, government subsidies for education, while beneficial, do not have the same direct impact on birth rates in the context of an economy where poverty is a significant concern.