ABSTRACT

This research work discusses on the levels and trends of nuptiality variables among women in Nigeria. The ultimate objective of the study emphasized more on those variables, which may be relevant in addressing the problem of rapid population growth. The nuptiality variables amc'g wonien in Nigeria was examined using !.onday data drawn mainly from 198 1/82 Nigeria Fertility Survey (NFS), 991 Popuktion Census and 9O, 1 99 and ?O Nc Demographic and icalth Survey (NDHS). The analysis was done using the simple descriptive statistics and standardization tec inki ues. The results of the analyses show that universality of marriage among women still persists. Secondly, there is a shift in age at first marriage over time and seems to stem from the fact that the proportion of ever married women decreases over time. This rise a age at first marriage is slow compared to other African countries. The analyses ao show a relatively high marital stability. Therefore, the consideration of marriage as an element of fertility change is recommended to check the rapid population growth. Further research on the reasons for slow rise in age at first marriage and how it can be improved upon has also been suggested.