Food Crisis: Cost of healthy diet rises further — NBS Report
Cost of Healthy Diet Rises Amid Inflation Fluctuations
By Elizabeth Adegbesan
The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reported an increase in the national average Cost of a Healthy Diet (CoHD), rising to 1,541 naira per adult per day in March 2026. This marks a 4.4 percent increase from 1,477 naira in March 2025, despite a recent moderation in the inflation rate.
While the NBS indicated a steady decrease in inflation rates leading up to February 2026, this trend reversed slightly in March and April. Nutritious food prices have risen by 1.89 percent on a month-to-month basis compared to February 2026.
The NBS attributed the increase in CoHD to rising prices across nearly all essential food groups. “The national average Cost of a Healthy Diet was 1,541 naira per adult per day in March 2026,” the report stated.
Geographical disparities in food affordability were noted, with southern states facing higher costs compared to their northern counterparts. Ekiti, Imo, and Abia states recorded the highest costs at 2,091, 2,052, and 1,970 naira, respectively. In contrast, Adamawa, the Federal Capital Territory, and Taraba state reported the lowest costs at 1,004, 1,113, and 1,149 naira, respectively.
Regionally, the South-East emerged as the most expensive area for food, with a CoHD of 1,899 naira per day, followed closely by the South-West at 1,801 naira. The North-East was identified as the most affordable zone at 1,233 naira per day.
The report highlighted that meeting dietary guidelines for animal-source foods represented the most significant expense, making up 39 percent of daily costs while only contributing 13 percent to total calorie intake. Fruits and vegetables also placed a strain on household budgets, with fruits consuming 16 percent of the daily budget for only 7 percent of calories, and vegetables consuming 14 percent for just 5 percent of calories. In contrast, legumes, nuts, and seeds were the most economical options, accounting for just 7 percent of total costs.
This information sheds light on the challenges faced by Nigerian households in securing affordable and nutritious food options amidst fluctuating economic conditions.
