ASSESSMENT OF RURAL HOUSEHOLDS FOOD INSECURITY DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC IN SOUTH-EAST NIGERIA

The problem of food insecurity remains a challenge in developing countries, especially rural areas. Despite the rising level insecurity, COVID-19 set and was said to pose threat security globally if adequate measures are not quickly put place. This study, therefore, described socio-economic characteristics respondents; examined extent which households secure or otherwise during pandemic examine drivers status among South-East Nigeria. Primary data were collected from 200 with use structured questionnaires. Data analysed using descriptive statistics, index logistics regression. Results findings revealed that majority household heads male (92%), married (93.5%), educated (87.5%) had an average age 54 years. They size 7 persons, farming experience 22 years, monthly income N14, 305.5 (83%) do belong cooperative society. Majority (69.5%) insecure, while only (30.5%) secure. food-secure 5 insecure 9 persons their households. headcount ratio 0.30, it 0.70 for food-insecure shows at least two out three study area. surplus/shortfall indicates exceeded calorie requirement by 12%, fell short recommended intake 39%. Square gap square shortfall indicate severity 0.0056. available (adult equivalent per day) 2523.5kcal, (AE/day) 1389.05kcal. identified positive marital status, educational level, members annual heads. While, head, negatively influenced status.
 recommends, others, putting place immediate policy reduce effect on household’s through provision enough palliatives should be monitored so gets targeted population. Effective management enlightenment programs modern family planning techniques encouraged Rural also nutritional implication various items such as egg, milk, soybean fish, children increase protein boost immune system against COVID-19.