Prevalence, Pattern and Factors Associated with Developmental Delay amongst Under-5 Children in Nigeria: Evidence from Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey 2011-2017.

Background: Children develop dynamically, and when a child fails to reach age-appropriate developmental milestones compared to their peers, it is considered a developmental delay. In developing nations like Nigeria, several demographics, socioeconomic, childcare and external factors may influence the highly individualised process. This study assessed the prevalence and pattern of developmental delay, across Nigeria's geopolitical zones including identified factors associated with developmental delay, providing insight for appropriate interventions to prevent disability in affected children.