Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity Among Primary School Children in Port Harcourt, Rivers State

The rising prevalence of overweight and obesity among children in Nigerian urban centres represents an emerging public health concern with long-term implications for non-communicable disease burden. This study determines the prevalence of overweight and obesity among primary school children in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, South South Nigeria, and examines associated dietary and physical activity patterns. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 pupils aged 6 to 12 years drawn from ten primary schools selected through multistage random sampling. Anthropometric measurements including weight, height, and body mass index were taken using standardised protocols, with weight status classified using the WHO Child Growth Reference. Structured questionnaires administered to parents captured dietary habits and after-school physical activity levels. Results indicate an overall overweight prevalence of 14.3 percent and an obesity prevalence of 8.1 percent among the sampled children, with significantly higher rates observed in private schools serving higher socioeconomic groups. High-calorie snack consumption, low fruit and vegetable intake, and limited participation in outdoor play are identified as dominant risk factors. Physical activity levels are substantially lower among children attending schools lacking outdoor play areas. Recommendations include school-based nutrition education programmes, restrictions on unhealthy food vendors within school premises, and the mandating of structured daily physical activity periods. Collaboration between the Rivers State Ministry of Education and health agencies is recommended to develop and implement a childhood obesity prevention strategy. Keywords: overweight, obesity, primary school children, Port Harcourt, nutritional status