The Embassy of France in Nigeria launches a cycle of 3 conferences on the demographics dynamics in Nigeria, gathering eminent Nigerian and French experts, exchanging ideas and opinion on a crucial subject for inclusive development and taking a step towards a better understanding of the Nigerian realities. The first conference was held on Friday 2nd of June 2023 at Alliance française of Lagos.
The debate of ideas occupies a central place within the cooperation mechanism of the French cultural network in Nigeria. In consultation, the services the Institut français de Recherche en Afrique (IFRA), Alliance française de Lagos, Institut français du Nigéria, Agence française de Développement (AFD) and Service of cultural Action and Cooperation have drawn up a programme of three debates on demographic dynamics, with the aim of giving a voice to French and Nigerian experts on a challenging subject, in a framework of constant dialogue, exchange and sharing of experience and knowledge. Open debates indeed play a pivotal role in nurturing informed decision-making, creating bridge between our cultures and bolsters democratic discourse.
With an estimated number of 220 million inhabitants estimated in 2022, 400 million in 2050, 800 million in 2100, Nigeria is one of the most densely populated country in the world. In order to lay the foundations of the demographic reality of Nigeria, the responsible and social use of statistics, as well as the tools available to those who reflect on these issues or those who work to address them, a first conference was organised in Alliance française of Lagos on Friday 2nd ofJune 2023. Both excellent Nigerian and French experts and researchers were reunited in a 3-hour conference moderated by the journalist, Mrs Tabia PRINCEWILL. The quality and the diversity of the panelists were acknowledged by anenthusiastic audience.
During the first round, Pr. François HERAN, the College de France Chair for Migration and Societies, had a fruitful exchange with Prof. Eka OBONO, Professor of Sociology and Ethnography (University of Ibadan).
During the second round, the General Director of the National Population Commission, Dr. OSIFO has shared his views on the demographic dynamics with two representatives of the civil society: Dr. Adun OKUPE from the think tank Sahara Centre and Mr. Sodiq ADELAKUN, winner of the 2022 edition of the World Press Photo.
Nigeria, with its vibrant culture, diverse ethnic groups, and growing population, faces unique challenges and opportunities. Understanding the intricacies of the population and the impact of the youth bulge is crucial for effective policymaking, resource allocation, and harnessing the potential of the next generation. Demographic studies also provide a solid foundation for sustainable development, social welfare, and equitable progress.
Two other conferences will follow in September (Abuja) and November (Lagos for the yearly event “Night of Ideas”), the first one focusing on education and alternative schooling models proposed by civil society in the face of mass school drop-out; and the second one looking at housing models for the people in relation to the development of urban planning, and the way in which it interacts with cultures, between vernacular architecture and Afro-futurism.
