Economic Hardship Stops Nigerian Youths from Starting Families, UN Finds

A survey of over 108,000 young adults across 73 countries has found economic hardship is the biggest obstacle to starting families, according to a report by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). The Demographic Futures Survey shows that young people value marriage, long-term relationships, and parenthood but are unable to achieve these goals due to financial insecurity, unstable employment, and housing challenges.

The survey, which was released on July 7, 2026, found that more than two-thirds of respondents wanted to marry or live with a partner, while almost 80% said partnership was an important precondition for becoming a parent. However, about one-quarter of respondents aged 25 to 39 said they wanted a partner but were single and not dating, with men more likely than women to report this.

The survey identified financial security, stable employment, and housing as the biggest barriers to marriage or a stable cohabiting relationship. It also found that financial security, stable employment, and psychological and emotional readiness were the three most important conditions respondents considered necessary before having children.

A young woman from India said in the survey that she wanted to raise a child in a shared home with emotional and financial support from both parents. A young man in Paraguay said bringing a child into the world was only one step, and the real challenge was raising them.

The UNFPA said the findings suggest discussions about declining fertility should focus less on whether young people value family life and more on the conditions needed for them to build the relationships, families, and futures they want.

Diene Keita, Executive Director of UNFPA, said, 'Youth people carry an inspiring sense of hope and a clear vision for their families and futures.' She added that when financial barriers are broken down and young people's agency is supported, they can make choices that are right for them.

The survey reflects the real-life experiences of many young Nigerians who struggle to balance financial stability and starting a family. Economic hardship can lead to delayed or foregone marriage and parenthood, contributing to demographic changes in the country.

As a result of the survey findings, the UNFPA is calling for greater investment in young people's education, employment, and well-being to help them build the relationships and families they want.