Culture and Policy Implementation: An Appraisal of Population Policy in Nigeria
ENANG, EBINGHA E; USHIE, MICHAEL

Abstract
Population policies are deliberately constructed and sometimes modified institutional arrangements and/or specific programs through which government influence, directly or indirectly, demographic change. Most observers are surprised by the swiftness with which concern over the population problem has turned from intellectual analysis and debate to policy and action. Specifically, population policy may narrowly be seen as bringing about quantitative changes in the membership of the territorially circumscribed population under any government’s administrative control. Such changes usually come with some relief that “at last something is being done” but there is no guarantee that what is being done is adequate. This is more so when viewed within a given cultural milieu. This paper therefore attempts a critical look at the overriding principle that informed the formulation of a National Population Policy in Nigeria and the place of culture considering the multicultural leanings amongst Nigerians which rather raise a question mark as to whether the policy has or has not achieved its envisaged attitudinal cultural changes that can bring about an improved standard of living as well as promote maternal and child health in Nigeria. It recommends a more culturally friendly policy(ies) that can appeal to the senses of the people rather than leaving the policy a dew pond.

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