Nigeria has been ranked as the country with the lowest life expectancy in the world, standing at 54.9 years, according to the latest United Nations World Population Prospects data.

The figures show Nigerian men have an average life expectancy of 54.3 years, while women live slightly longer at 54.9 years.
This places Nigeria at the bottom of a list of 25 countries with the shortest lifespans, ahead only of Chad at 55.2 years and South Sudan and the Central African Republic at 57.7 years.

The UN report shows that sub-Saharan Africa continues to bear the greatest burden, with 22 of the 25 countries with the lowest life expectancy located in the region. Lesotho (57.8 years), Somalia (59.0 years) and Mali (60.7 years) also feature among the lowest.
Maternal and infant mortality rates remain among the highest globally, while insecurity in parts of the country further limits access to health services.

According to the World Health Organisation, cancers, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic lung illnesses, and mental health conditions are the leading causes of death and disability worldwide.

Authorities have acknowledged the challenge and pledged reforms.

The Ministry of Health has announced plans to expand universal health coverage and improve public health infrastructure, though implementation has faced delays.

Meanwhile, a medical expert Dr Raymond Kuti, raised concerns regarding the data arguing that the life expectancy for Nigeria is higher than reported.

“The criteria they use is always faulty. They just want us to believe that we have a low lifespan,” he stated.
While Kuti acknowledged various diseases that negatively impact lifespan, he emphasised the need for accurate data to reflect the true health status of the population.

International organisations have continued to urge investment in healthcare, nutrition and sanitation to improve living standards.