Patterns of Divorce in Nigeria

Two dominant features of Nigerian nuptiality are early and universal marriage. However, changes that are altering this traditional nuptiality pattern have been taking place. The process of modernization has brought about changes in norms and values and increased women’s economic independence. A growing number of persons dissolve their marriages through divorce. Yet, as in many other developing countries, the study of nuptiality patterns in Nigeria is not as well advanced as in developed countries. This study, therefore examined the patterns of divorce in Nigeria. Rate of divorce in Nigeria was 7.2 per 1000 persons age 10 to 85. The highest rates were in the Muslim-dominated Northeast and Northwest, and South-South regions of the country whereas the lowest rate was in the Southeast. Polygyny, wife’s economic dependence, illiteracy, early age at marriage and large spousal gap are likely factors that explain the high rates of divorce in those zones. The least prevalence in the Southeast is likely a result of the influence of the Catholic Church. More women (67.4 percent) than men are divorced, indicating a higher rate of remarriage after divorce by men. This study contributes to the study of nuptilaity patterns and its implications in Nigeria.