Background of the Study
Physical activity is crucial for the development and overall health of children. In Nigeria, increasing concerns about childhood obesity, diabetes, and other lifestyle diseases have spurred the need to examine the levels of physical activity among school-aged children. Kaduna State, like many parts of Nigeria, faces a growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among its younger population, potentially due to sedentary lifestyles. Global research emphasizes the importance of physical activity in reducing childhood obesity and enhancing cognitive and emotional well-being (Ogunniyi et al., 2024). Despite national efforts to promote physical activity through schools and community programs, the activity levels among children in Kaduna State remain largely undocumented. Existing literature highlights a decline in outdoor play and an increase in sedentary activities like screen time, which are strongly correlated with a lack of physical activity (Adeyemi et al., 2023). However, the specific patterns and determinants of physical activity in Kaduna State’s school-aged children have not been thoroughly studied. This research will address the gap by evaluating physical activity levels, the barriers to active lifestyles, and the role of school policies and environmental factors in shaping children’s physical activity.
Statement of the Problem
Recent studies have shown that school-aged children in Nigeria are increasingly engaging in sedentary behaviors, contributing to the rise of obesity and related health problems. However, there is limited research on physical activity levels among children in Kaduna State, and the specific barriers preventing regular physical activity are poorly understood. Schools are seen as pivotal in promoting physical activity, yet limited resources and infrastructural challenges may hinder effective implementation of such programs. This research aims to address the lack of data on physical activity levels among children in Kaduna State and investigate how school-based interventions, as well as home and community environments, influence these activity levels.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on public and private school children aged 6-16 years in Kaduna State. The research will assess physical activity levels through surveys and interviews with parents, teachers, and school administrators. Limitations include potential biases in reporting physical activity levels, as well as the challenge of capturing the full range of environmental influences on physical activity outside of school settings.
Definitions of Terms
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