Assessment of Nutritional Status and Its Determinants Among Under-Five Children in Yobe State

Child malnutrition remains a critical public health challenge in northeast Nigeria, where conflict, displacement, and food insecurity have compounded pre-existing nutritional vulnerabilities. This study assessed the nutritional status of children under five and identified associated determinants in Damaturu Local Government Area, Yobe State, North East Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional community survey was conducted among 300 children under five and their mothers or caregivers, selected through multistage sampling. Anthropometric measurements including weight, height, and mid-upper arm circumference were taken following WHO standardised protocols. Nutritional status was categorised using WHO 2006 Child Growth Standards. A structured questionnaire assessed dietary diversity, breastfeeding practices, maternal education, household food security, and access to safe water. Results showed global acute malnutrition prevalence of 22.4 percent (above the WHO emergency threshold of 15 percent), stunting prevalence of 41.8 percent, and underweight prevalence of 34.6 percent. Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months was practised by only 34.7 percent of mothers. Exclusive breastfeeding (OR 0.42; p < 0.001), dietary diversity score above 4 (OR 0.51; p < 0.001), and maternal secondary education (OR 0.58; p < 0.01) were significant protective factors. The study concludes that malnutrition remains at emergency levels in Damaturu and recommends integrated nutrition programmes combining therapeutic feeding, maternal education, and food security support as coordinated humanitarian and development responses. Keywords: nutritional status, malnutrition, children under five, Yobe State, North East Nigeria