Title: The Role Of Demographic Data In Mitigating Economic Disparity And Social Inequality In Nigeria: A Critical Review
Authors: Ejeh Benedict, Abel Onyema Angela, Aina Mercy
Volume: 10
Issue: 1
Pages: 63-71
Publication Date: 2026/01/28
Abstract:
Economic disparity and social inequality remain persistent challenges in Nigeria, undermining inclusive growth, social cohesion, and sustainable development. These challenges manifest in unequal access to income, education, healthcare, political representation, and economic opportunities across regions, genders, and socio-economic groups. This paper critically reviews the role of demographic data in mitigating economic disparity and social inequality in Nigeria. Adopting a secondary research design, the study synthesizes evidence from peer-reviewed literature, national census and survey reports, and international development publications produced by institutions such as the National Population Commission, National Bureau of Statistics, World Bank, UNDP, and UNICEF. The review reveals that demographic data play a central role in identifying inequality patterns, targeting social interventions, informing economic planning, enhancing political representation, and monitoring progress toward national development plans and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Evidence shows that disaggregated demographic indicators are essential for addressing regional, gender, and rural-urban disparities, particularly in education, health, and poverty reduction. However, the study also identifies major constraints limiting the effectiveness of demographic data in Nigeria, including outdated census figures, political manipulation of population data, weak institutional capacity, limited access to disaggregated datasets, and public mistrust in official statistics. The paper concludes that strengthening demographic data systems through regular and transparent censuses, institutional capacity building, depoliticization of data processes, and improved data accessibility is indispensable for reducing inequality and promoting inclusive development in Nigeria. The study recommends sustained political commitment and strategic collaboration with international partners to enhance the credibility and utilization of demographic data for equitable national development.