Prevalence and Predictors of Overweight and Obesity Among Civil Servants in Owerri, Imo State

The rising burden of overweight and obesity among Nigerian civil servants reflects the convergence of sedentary occupational habits, dietary transitions, and limited workplace wellness programming, particularly in South East state capitals. This study examines the prevalence and predictors of overweight and obesity among civil servants in Owerri, Imo State. A cross-sectional descriptive design is applied to 320 civil servants selected through stratified random sampling from four state ministries. Body mass index is calculated from measured weight and height, with waist circumference used as a supplementary adiposity indicator. A structured questionnaire captures dietary patterns, physical activity frequency, sitting duration per workday, sleep hours, and socioeconomic status. SPSS is used for analysis, with chi-square tests and logistic regression identifying significant predictors of overweight and obesity. Available evidence from the 2021 Nigerian National Chronic Disease and Injury Survey indicates an overweight and obesity prevalence of approximately 42 percent among urban civil servants in South East states, with sedentary desk work and frequent consumption of energy-dense foods identified as primary drivers. The Social-Ecological Model frames the interplay of individual, organisational, and environmental predictors. Findings will guide the Imo State Civil Service Commission and health authorities in implementing workplace wellness, physical activity incentives, and dietary counselling for government workers. Keywords: overweight, obesity, civil servants, prevalence, Imo State.