FERTILITY RATE, LIFE EXPECTANCY AND ECONOMIC GROWTH IN NIGERIA

The influence of fertility rate and life expectancy on economic growth cannot be overemphasized. This study examined empirically examined the fertility rate, life expectancy and economic growth in Nigeria employing the use an ECM model as its tool of data analysis. The scope of the study is from 1981-2021 to reflect current dynamics in the real sector as well as the social sectors (demographics). Based on the findings of this study, it was discovered that life expectancy significantly influences economic growth in Nigeria. While fertility rate has an insignificant impact on economic growth. Also, government expenditures on health and education does not significantly affect economic growth in the period under consideration. In light of the above findings, significant resources should be allocated to the health and educational sectors as this would boost health care delivery and literacy rate in Nigeria. This is because it is only a healthy and educated workforce that can contributed meaningfully to the growth process of Nigeria. The study concluded that life expectancy is a key determinant of
economic growth in Nigeria.