Population: the population of a society or group (whether it increases or decreases) can bring about social change. In an increasing population there may be need for changes in the consumption patterns of the people, availability of resources or facilities etc. increase in population will also be accompanied by an increase in the provision of social and infrastructural facilities such as electricity, housing, water, establishment of more schools at all levels, good roads etc. A decreasing population on the other hand could necessitate changes in the social structure in order to protect or defend members of the society against any external aggression.
Leadership: The leadership of a society or group can bring about social change. This is particularly true of charismatic leaders who enjoy a tremendous followership in the society. In view of the charismatic quality possessed by their leaders, the followers are ready and willing to support any change initiated by their leaders. Such charismatic leaders who have influenced social change in their societies include Mahatma Ghandi of India, Martin Luther King (Junior) who fought for equal economic, social and political rights for black people in the United State of America, Obafemi Awolowo, Nnamdi Azikwe and Ahmadu Bello all of who fought for the independence of Nigeria from Britain. The list also includes Comrade Adams Oshiomole of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) who has consistently mobilized Nigerian workers and the masses of the country to oppose fuel price hike of the Obasanjo administration in 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2004.
