Nigeria, March 24 -- With a population estimated to be in excess of 220 million, Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa and seventh in the world. The country's population keeps growing at about 2.6 per cent per year - one of the fastest rates globally. On this scale, Nigeria's population could double within the next 25 to 30 years.

The population structure is potentially an economic asset. The country has the largest population of youths in the world, with a median age of 18.1 years. About 70 per cent of the population are under 30, and 42 per cent are under the age of 15. The overall quality of life for the population is however of concern to many. Poverty and youth unemployment have been a major source of worry for policy maker...