Prevalence and Determinants of Childhood Malnutrition Among Under-Five Children in Ebonyi State, South East Nigeria

Childhood malnutrition continues to undermine child survival and development outcomes across Nigeria, with the South East zone recording persistently high rates of stunting, wasting, and underweight among children under five. This study examines the prevalence and determinants of malnutrition in Ebonyi State, focusing on household food security, infant and young child feeding practices, maternal education, and access to clean water and sanitation. A descriptive cross-sectional survey is conducted among 280 caregivers of children aged zero to 59 months selected from four local government areas through systematic random sampling. Anthropometric measurements including weight-for-age, height-for-age, and mid-upper arm circumference are taken alongside structured interviews. Data are entered into EpiData version 3.1 and analysed with SPSS, applying logistic regression to identify independent predictors of malnutrition. Recent national nutrition surveys estimate that one in three children in South East states presents with at least one form of malnutrition, underscoring the urgency for community-level interventions. The theoretical basis of the study is informed by the UNICEF conceptual framework for child nutrition, which identifies immediate, underlying, and basic causes of malnutrition. Findings will guide local government health departments and community-based organisations in designing targeted nutrition programmes. The study also contributes to achieving targets under the National Strategic Plan of Action for Nutrition. Keywords: childhood malnutrition, under-five children, food security, Ebonyi State, South East Nigeria.