Survey of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Conditions in Boarding Secondary Schools and Their Implications for Student Nutrition in Adamawa State, North East Nigeria

The water, sanitation, and hygiene environment of boarding secondary schools directly influences student health, nutritional status, and academic performance. Inadequate WASH conditions increase vulnerability to waterborne and foodborne diseases that compromise dietary absorption and overall well-being. This study surveyed WASH conditions and their implications for student nutrition in boarding secondary schools in Adamawa State, North East Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was adopted, with ten boarding secondary schools selected through purposive sampling. School WASH infrastructure was assessed using structured observation checklists aligned with WHO-UNICEF standards. Nutritional status of 200 students was evaluated through anthropometric measurements, and a dietary adequacy questionnaire was administered. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis. Results revealed widespread deficiencies in handwashing facilities, potable water supply, and food storage infrastructure within school kitchens. Stunting and anaemia indicators were more prevalent among students in schools with lower WASH scores. Meal variety was monotonous and fell below energy recommendations for school-age adolescents. A significant positive relationship was found between WASH adequacy score and student dietary adequacy. The study recommends prioritised government investment in WASH infrastructure at boarding schools and engagement of home economics professionals in school meal planning. Keywords: WASH, boarding schools, student nutrition, Adamawa State, food safety