In line with its vision and goals, the department carries out the following functions:
- Population policy formulation, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation
- Demographic statistics and analysis
- Mainstreaming population factor in the development planning process
- Provision of family welfare services including family planning and general medical care
- Preparation of budget and development schemes
- Coordination with the federal government, international agencies, NGOs, and donors
- Procurement and distribution of contraceptives
- Training research and development of professional standards
- Information, education, and communication services
- Promotion of population planning activities through private and other public sector institutions
- Budget, accounts, and audit matters
- Purchase of stores and capital goods
- Service matters except those entrusted to the Services and General Administration Department
- Matters incidental and ancillary to the above subjects