Malthusian Population theory and the Nigerian Economy: A Political Economy Approach

Abstract

Malthusian population theory was developed as a result of the rapid population growth rate and diminishing return in agricultural sector. Malthus observed geometric ratio growth in population vis-a-vis arithmetic ratio growth in food production and envisaged world “misery” or “vice” if not checked. Subsequent development in the world however, proved the theory wrong. But this work discovers that the predicted doom of population theory is manifesting in Nigeria - rapid population growth rate, food crises, large scale poverty, ethnic and religious conflict, HIV/AIDS epidemics, etc. Although, the aforementioned are in line with the theory’s predictions, Nigerian government operational modus favors these manifestations over the years. The work therefore, recommended that the judicial arm of government be made more efficient at law-enforcement, education sector be given appropriate budgetary attention to subdue poverty, diseases and health care predicaments. Thus, conclude that although, the theory is looked upon as primitive and wrong, the forecasted melancholies still exist in the 21st century Nigeria. Keywords: Population, Political Economy, Economic Growth