Fertility Motivations in Plateau State, Nigeria

Global trends show that motivations for childbearing have been influenced by various factors, including deadly pandemics, economic recessions, and geopolitical tensions. Plateau State, Nigeria, presents a unique case study in this context. Known for its cultural diversity, the state encompasses 17 Local Government Areas, each with distinct ethnic identities, languages, and customs. Plateau State, particularly its capital Jos, has experienced recurring ethnoreligious crises that may have impacted fertility rates. However, the influence of these crises on childbearing decisions is potentially intertwined with other factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and religious beliefs. This study aims to investigate whether the ethnoreligious conflicts in Jos serve as a fertility determinant and to identify other variables affecting fertility in the region. The research employed qualitative methods, including focus group discussions with two women's groups and key informant interviews with religious leaders. Findings reveal that fertility decisions in Plateau State are shaped by a complex interplay of socio-cultural norms, marriage customs, and family values. These factors are further influenced by religious beliefs, educational attainment, and socioeconomic status across the state's diverse population. Notably, the study uncovered a shift in attitudes towards family size in response to the ongoing conflicts. Prior to the escalation of crises, there was openness to discussing the benefits of smaller families. However, as conflicts became more frequent, a trend towards larger families emerged. This shift appears to be driven by an ideological aim to increase population numbers as a means of protecting land from perceived threats by crisis perpetrators. The research highlights the dynamic nature of fertility motivations in Plateau State, demonstrating how societal values regarding childbearing can evolve in response to external pressures and perceived threats to community security and identity.