Impact of Food Insecurity among Household with under 5 Children in Nigeria: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Food insecurity is a worldwide public health concern affecting millions, particularly young Nigerian children, who are at high risk of malnutrition and developmental issues. The aim of this study is to explore the dynamics and coping strategies of Nigerian families with children under age five in order to understand the impact of food insecurity on these families. Methodology: A comprehensive search of electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL and African Journal Online was carried out for relevant articles published between 2014 and 2024, the search strategy used keywords such as "food insecurity" AND "under-five children" AND "Nigeria". This study included 10 papers with qualitative research that examined food insecurity in Nigerian households with children under five. The key challenges and tragedies of these families were identified by applying thematic analysis methods to the analysis of the selected studies data. Results: Ten studies that satisfied the inclusion criteria were included in this study. The study reveal that food insecurity significantly impacts the nutritional status, growth, and development of children under five years old in Nigeria, leading to malnutrition, stunting, wasting, and underweight. Factors such as poverty, unemployment, big families, low maternal education, and low agricultural production dramatically raises the morbidity and mortality rates in this age group. The review highlighted the psychological stress faced by caregivers, which exacerbates the difficulties of managing food insecurity within the household. Conclusion: Nigerian families with children under five are impacted by food insecurity, which has an impact on development and nutrition. The adverse effects on child nutrition and development highlight the need for targeted interventions aimed at improving food access and nutritional support for vulnerable families. Long-term effects can be reduced by addressing socioeconomic issues like unemployment and poverty, putting sustainable farming methods into place, and improving maternal education.