The Role of Demographic Characteristics as option for Economic Diversification in Sokoto State, Nigeria

Résumé

This study examined the role of demographic characteristics as option for economic diversification in Sokoto State. It focuses on the human populations, their structure and change. Demographic indicators in the study include population size, population growth rate and total fertility rate, among others.

The study adopted a cross-sectional approach using both primary and secondary sources of data. It involved over 300 sample size of population interviewed using key informant interview scheduled across the state. In addition, data from NDHS, NPopC and other government documents were utilized and analyzed using SPSS.

The findings reveal that both infant mortality and under-5 mortality rates are high (89/1000 and 185/1000 respectively) and affected the economic development and diversification of the state. In terms of education, out of school children accounts for 66.8% of total school going children, net attendance ratio at primary level is 39.8% for boys and 24.6% for girls, while gender parity index for primary level is 0.55. The study concludes that the demographics of the state is growing very rapidly and changes at a rate far above the national average of Nigeria. The growth rate is a function of cultural dispositions that encourages polygamy of up to four wives the overwhelming poverty level of the state. To avert the situation, the study suggests more economic diversification among growing population in the state and beyond.