Original Articles
Vol. 9 (2026)
https://doi.org/10.4081/pjm.2026.566

Predictors of family size among currently married men in rural northwestern Nigeria

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Published: 28 September 2026
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Family size, high fertility, married men, spousal communication, northern Nigeria

Authors

Sadiya H. Warshu
swarshu@yahoo.com
Department of Community Medicine, Northwest University, Kano, Nigeria.
Iman Haruna
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwest University, Kano, Nigeria.
Rabiu Ibrahim Jalo
Department of Community Medicine, Bayero University & Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, Nigeria.
Aminatu Kwaku Chiroma
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3604-231X
Department of Community Medicine, Bayero University & Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, Nigeria.
Amina Ibrahim Braji
Department of Community Medicine, Northwest University, Kano, Nigeria.
Aisha Aliyu Abulfathi
https://orcid.org/0009-0006-6986-0377
Department of Community Medicine, University of Maiduguri, Nigeria.

High fertility remains a major public health and development concern in rural Northern Nigeria, where large family norms persist despite ongoing fertility transitions in other regions. Understanding the socio-demographic and behavioral factors influencing family size among men is essential for designing effective fertility regulation interventions. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of large family size among married men in rural northwestern Nigeria. 

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 277 married men in rural northwestern Nigeria using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics, fertility history, reproductive preferences, and spousal communication. Family size was dichotomized as small (≤4 children) and large (≥5 children). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests for bivariate associations, and multivariable binary logistic regression to identify independent predictors of large family size. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05.

The average age of respondents was 47.8±13.3 years, and the average number of children ever fathered was 7.8±5.9. Nearly two-thirds (65.3%) of respondents had large families. On a multivariable level, men under 45 years old were significantly less likely to have large families compared with those aged 45 and above (Adjusted Odds Ratio, AOR=0.11; 95% Confidence Interval, CI: 0.06-0.22). Men who married between 20 and 29 years of age had higher odds of having a large family than those who married at age 30 or later (AOR=2.26; 95% CI: 1.06-4.80). Notably, men who discussed the desired number of children with their wives were significantly less likely to have large families (AOR=0.28; 95% CI: 0.12-0.66). Educational level, household wealth, and discussions about contraception were not independently linked to family size.

Large family size remains prevalent among married men in rural northwestern Nigeria. Age, timing of marriage, and spousal communication regarding desired family size are key determinants of fertility outcomes. Interventions aimed at fertility reduction in similar settings should prioritize male involvement, promote spousal communication, and address deeply rooted pronatalist norms, rather than focusing solely on contraceptive provision.

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Iman Haruna, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwest University, Kano

Senior Lecturer, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Rabiu Ibrahim Jalo, Department of Community Medicine, Bayero University & Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano

Associate professor, department of community medicine

Aminatu Kwaku Chiroma, Department of Community Medicine, Bayero University & Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano

Senior Lecturer, Department of Community Medicine, Bayero University & Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano

Amina Ibrahim Braji, Department of Community Medicine, Northwest University, Kano
Lecturer, Department of Community Medicine, Northwest University, Kano

Aisha Aliyu Abulfathi, Department of Community Medicine, University of Maiduguri
Senior lecturer, Department of Community Medicine, University of Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria

How to Cite



“Predictors of Family Size Among Currently Married Men in Rural Northwestern Nigeria”. 2026. Pyramid Journal of Medicine 9 (1). https://doi.org/10.4081/pjm.2026.566.
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