Background: Malnutrition is a common problem in Sub-Saharan Nigeria. The untoward effects of malnutrition on
children cannot be overemphasized. There is need for studies to understand the dynamics of malnutrition in order to intervene
appropriately. Nutritional assessment in the community is essential for accurate planning and implementation of intervention
programmes to reduce mortality and morbidity associated with malnutrition. Objectives: This study was carried out to assess
the nutritional status of primary school pupils in urban and rural areas of Anambra state, compare them and find out the factors
that affect their nutritional status. Methodology: A cross sectional comparative study of 365 children selected by stratified
random sampling method from primary schools in both urban and rural areas of Anambra state was carried out. Their
nutritional status was determined using anthropometric measures. The socioeconomic and socio demographic variables of
interest were analyzed to determine their association with malnutrition in the children. Results: Three hundred and sixty five
pupils participated in the study. Among the pupils 181 were in the rural area while 184 were in the urban area. The overall
prevalence of underweight, stunting and overweight were 10.7%, 1.9% and 4.1% respectively. Prevalence of underweight was
higher in the rural area (18.8%) than in the urban area (2.7%) and the difference was statistically significant. The prevalence of
stunting was higher in the rural area (3.3%) than in the urban area (0.5%) and the difference was statistically significant.
Underweight was more among the pupils whose parents had low educational level than among those whose parents had higher
educational level, and the difference was statistically significant. Conclusion: Malnutrition is higher in the rural areas than the
urban areas in Anambra state. Low level of education of parents predisposes children to malnutrition.