Cost of Healthy Diet Rises to ₦1,541 Daily – NBS
The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has reported that the average cost of a healthy diet in Nigeria rose to ₦1,541 per adult per day in March 2026, up from ₦1,513 in February and ₦1,477 in March 2025.
This represents a 1.89% month-on-month increase and a 4.38% year-on-year rise, highlighting the growing financial strain on households despite moderating inflation.
The report showed wide disparities across states. Ekiti (₦2,091), Imo (₦2,052), and Abia (₦1,970) recorded the highest costs, while Adamawa (₦1,004), FCT (₦1,113), and Taraba (₦1,149) were the most affordable. Regionally, the South-East (₦1,899) was the most expensive, while the North-East (₦1,233) was the cheapest.
The NBS noted: “Animal-source foods accounted for 39% of the total cost of a healthy diet while contributing only 13% of calories.” Fruits made up 16% of costs but just 7% of calories, while vegetables contributed 14% of costs and 5% of calories.
Legumes, nuts, and seeds remained the most affordable group, at 7% of total cost, with white beans identified as the cheapest protein source in most states. Palm oil was the least expensive fat source in 55% of locations.
Staples such as white garri, maize grains, and dried shrimps consistently featured among the least-cost food options, helping households balance nutrition with affordability.
The report comes after Nairametrics found that maintaining a healthy diet in Abuja cost families up to ₦300,000 monthly in May 2026, with adults spending between ₦1,500–₦2,000 daily.
Headline inflation rose to 15.69% in April 2026, while food inflation moderated to 16.06% year-on-year, down from 24.68% in April 2025, showing some relief but leaving nutritious diets out of reach for many households.