The average cost of maintaining a healthy diet in Nigeria increased to N1,541 per adult per day in March 2026, according to the latest report released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
The report revealed that the figure represents a 4.4 per cent increase when compared with N1,477 recorded during the same period last year. On a month-to-month basis, the cost also rose by 1.89 per cent from the February 2026 figure.
According to the NBS, the increase was driven by rising prices across major food groups despite signs of moderation in overall inflation levels. The report highlighted significant regional disparities in the cost of accessing a healthy diet across the country.
Among the states surveyed, Ekiti recorded the highest daily cost at N2,091 per adult, followed by Imo at N2,052 and Abia at N1,970. In contrast, Adamawa, the Federal Capital Territory, and Taraba recorded some of the lowest costs, standing at N1,004, N1,113, and N1,149 respectively.
At the zonal level, the South-East emerged as the most expensive region with an average healthy diet cost of N1,899, while the South-West followed at N1,801. The North-East recorded the lowest zonal average at N1,233.
The report further showed that animal-source foods contributed the highest share of the overall diet cost, accounting for 39 per cent of total expenditure despite providing only 13 per cent of caloric intake. Fruits and vegetables also remained relatively expensive compared to their contribution to daily calorie requirements.
Experts say the increasing cost of nutritious food poses significant challenges to household food security, especially for low-income earners. They warn that rising food costs may compel many families to substitute healthier options with cheaper alternatives, potentially affecting nutritional outcomes.
The latest figures come amid ongoing concerns about inflation, declining purchasing power, and the broader cost-of-living pressures facing Nigerians.
Source: National Bureau of Statistics (NBS)
