Determinants of household dietary diversity and consumption patterns of selected food groups among rural households in Nigeria's Northeast and Northwest regions

This study explored the factors affecting dietary diversity among rural households in Northwest and Northeast Nigeria. It utilized the fourth-round survey data from 1,418 households across five states (Adamawa, Borno, Katsina, Yobe, and Zamfara), collected by the Data in Emergencies (DIEM) Monitoring System under the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Household Dietary diversity was measured on a 0–12 scale, and its determinants were analyzed using Poisson regression. The findings revealed moderate dietary diversity, with an average Household Dietary Diversity Score (HDDS) of 6.4 (SD ± 2.7) on a 0–12 scale. Households predominantly consumed starchy foods, with cereals reported by 94.7% of the respondents. Several factors were identified to significantly influence household dietary diversity (HDDS). Larger household size was negatively associated with HDDS (β = -0.0323, SE = 0.0052, p < .0001), as was severe food insecurity, which was inversely related to dietary diversity (β = -0.3103, SE = 0.0635, p < .0001). Additionally, regional disparities were observed, with households in Yobe (β = -0.0924, SE = 0.0370, p = .0127) and Zamfara (β = -0.1171, SE = 0.0356, p = .0010) reporting significantly lower HDDS compared to those in Adamawa. Households engaged in crop production (β = -0.1564, SE = 0.0445, p = .0005), livestock production (β = -0.1458, SE = 0.0449, p = .0012), or combined crop-livestock farming (β = -0.1481, SE = 0.0535, p = .0057) also exhibited lower HDDS, likely due to the subsistence nature of agriculture in these regions. In contrast, higher income was positively associated with HDDS (β = 0.1493, SE = 0.0588, p = .0112). Interestingly, exposure to shocks was also linked to increased household dietary diversity (β = 0.1452, SE = 0.0236, p < .0001), suggesting possible short-term adaptations. These findings highlighted the urgent need to improve household dietary diversity in Northeast and Northwest Nigeria through region-specific interventions. Efforts should prioritize diversifying livelihoods by promoting income-generating activities beyond agriculture, such as small-scale businesses, while also encouraging agricultural practices that move beyond subsistence farming. Additionally, implementing safety nets, including cash transfers and food assistance, will help mitigate the impacts of shocks and build resilience. Together, these strategies will foster sustainable improvements in dietary quality and food security in the regions. Key words: Dietary Diversity, Food Insecurity, Food Groups, Rural Households, Northern Nigeria