Dietary Adequacy and Nutrition Knowledge Among Pregnant Women in a Refugee Settlement in Cross River State

Displaced pregnant women in refugee and internally displaced persons settlements face compounded nutritional risks due to food insecurity, limited access to antenatal services, and restricted food variety. This study evaluates dietary adequacy and nutrition knowledge among pregnant women residing in a settlement for displaced persons in Ogoja Local Government Area, Cross River State, South South Nigeria. The settlement hosts populations displaced from conflict-affected areas in neighbouring Cameroon and domestic locations, creating a complex multisectoral nutrition context. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 180 pregnant women in their second or third trimester residing in the settlement. Dietary adequacy was assessed using a quantitative 24-hour dietary recall and the Women's Dietary Diversity Score, which captures intake across ten food groups. Nutrition knowledge was assessed using a structured questionnaire covering macronutrient needs in pregnancy, iron and folic acid supplementation, and food taboos. Anthropometric measurements including mid-upper arm circumference and gestational weight gain were recorded. Haemoglobin concentration was measured as a proxy for iron status. Findings are expected to reveal critically low dietary diversity, limited knowledge of pregnancy nutrition needs, and high anaemia prevalence. The study recommends integrating targeted maternal nutrition support into humanitarian response frameworks in Cross River State. Keywords: dietary adequacy, pregnancy, refugee settlement, Cross River State, humanitarian nutrition.