FOOD AND NUTRITION SECURITY OF HOUSEHOLDS IN THE CONFLICT-AFFECTED COMMUNITY OF MGBUJI IN ENUGU STATE, NIGERIA

Background: Data regarding the actual food security status of households in conflict-affected regions of Enugu State, Nigeria, are scarce, even though numerous communities in this area have endured prolonged conflicts.Objective: This study aimed to determine the food and nutrition security of households in the conflict-affected community of Mgbuji, Enugu State, Nigeria.Method: A cross-sectional survey design was adopted. The study population comprised households living in Mgbuji from 2022 to 2023. Through multi-stage sampling, 162 households, comprising 146 elderly (≥60 years) persons and 215 children (0-5years) were selected for the study. Data collection methods were questionnaire (Household Food Insecurity Access Scale [HFIAS]), anthropometry (BMI, MUAC, WAZ, WHZ, and HAZ), blood pressure, and random blood glucose determination (RBS). Data analysis was carried out using WHO and FAO-based reference standards for HFIAS, BMI, MUAC, WAZ, WHZ, HAZ, hypertension, and RBS, respectively. SPSS was used for statistical analysis, chi-square test was used to determine statistical associations, and results were presented as frequencies and percentages. Significant difference was identified at p<0.05 and at 95% confidence interval.Results: Most (52.0%) children in these communities were male, while most (53.7%) elderly persons were female. The predominant (74.7%) occupation of the households was farming. Overall, 82.7%, 6.2%, and 8.0% were severely, moderately, and mildly food insecure, respectively. An equal proportion (14.4%) of children were severely and moderately stunted; 15.3% were severely wasted; 14.4% were severely underweight; 4.6% had SAM; and 7.4% had MAM according to the MUAC classification. Most (53.4%) elderly persons were hypertensive, 20.5% were overweight, and 13.7% were underweight. Conclusion: Households in Mgbuji faced severe food insecurity and malnutrition. The conflict-affected community of Mgbuji cries for relevant agencies to build capacity for food and nutrition security