| Ethnicity and Child Survival in Nigeria |
| Authors: |
Fayehun O.A and Omololu O.O. |
| Source: |
African Population Studies, Vol 25 (1) Supplement April 2011: 92-112 |
| Topic(s): |
Childhood mortality
|
| Country: |
Africa
Nigeria
|
| Published: |
JAN 2011 |
| Abstract: |
This study examined specific socio-cultural practices, which vary among different
ethnic groups, as they affect childhood morbidity and mortality in Nigeria. Data
from Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) 2003 were complemented
with 40 focus group discussions and 40 in-depth interviews among selected ethnic
groups in Nigeria. An examination of the Direct Estimates and Cox regression on
childhood mortality indicate significant differences, with ethnic groups in the
northern part of Nigeria having the highest risk. The values placed on children
among all ethnic groups are reflected in different socio-cultural beliefs and prac-
tices with significant influence of maternal education. Although the assumption
that specific socio-cultural practices might be salient to exposure of children
under five years to childhood mortality was supported in the study, the differences
observed are more a reflection of the mother’s household environment and socio-
economic variables.
Keywords: Nigeria, childhood mortality, socio-economic, culture, ethnicity |
| Web: |
http://aps.journals.ac.za/pub/article/view/258/247 |
|