Multifactorial Determinants of Obesity in Nigeria: A Synthesis of Socioeconomic, Environmental and Behavioral Factors

Background: Obesity has emerged as a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, contributing to the rising burden of non-communicable diseases. Understanding the multifactorial determinants is essential for designing effective interventions. Objective: This review synthesizes evidence on socioeconomic, environmental, behavioral, genetic, and cultural determinants of obesity in Nigeria. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and African Journals Online (AJOL) was conducted for studies published between 2000 and 2025 following PRISMA guidelines. Included studies reported quantitative or qualitative data on socioeconomic, environmental, behavioral, genetic, or cultural determinants of overweight/obesity in Nigerian populations. Data on study design, population characteristics, determinants examined, and key findings were extracted and synthesized thematically. Results: Key determinants include urban residence, higher socioeconomic status among women, food insecurity transitioning to obesity, expansion of fast-food outlets, physical inactivity, genetic polymorphisms, and cultural body image preferences favoring larger body sizes. Obesity prevalence in Nigeria ranges from 8-20% in adults, with higher rates among women, and is strongly associated with chronic diseases-hypertension, diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Conclusion: Obesity in Nigeria is worsen by complex interactions across multiple levels. Integrated, multisectoral policies addressing food environments, urban planning, and health literacy are urgently needed.