Analysis of Child Malnutrition and Social Determinants in Jigawa State

Child malnutrition in Jigawa State is among the most severe in Nigeria, and systematic analysis of its prevalence and social determinants provides an evidence base for targeted nutrition programming in the North West zone. This study analysed the prevalence and social determinants of malnutrition among children aged 0 to 59 months in Hadejia, Kaugama, and Kafin Hausa Local Government Areas, Jigawa State. A cross-sectional survey of 400 mother-child pairs was conducted. Anthropometric measurements were taken following WHO standards. Social determinant data included maternal education, household food security, sanitation access, care practices, and healthcare utilisation. Stunting prevalence was 53.8 percent, wasting 19.4 percent, and underweight 42.7 percent. Household food insecurity (OR = 4.1), poor sanitation (OR = 2.7), and low maternal education (OR = 3.3) were the strongest predictors of stunting. Exclusive breastfeeding was practised by only 28.3 percent. Recommendations include a state Nutrition Action Plan integrating WASH, health, and food security interventions, scaling up community management of acute malnutrition, and integrating nutrition counselling into routine PHC services across Jigawa State.

Keywords: child malnutrition, stunting, Jigawa State, social determinants, nutrition These findings confirm that multisectoral interventions simultaneously targeting nutrition, WASH, healthcare, and maternal education are necessary in Jigawa State. Integrating community nutrition workers into the state's formal health system remains a critical implementation priority.