Cost of healthy diet per day hit N1,513 in February – NBS

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reported that the average daily cost of a healthy diet (CoHD) per adult in Nigeria stood at N1,513 as of February 2026. This figure represents a 3.76% increase from the N1,458 recorded in January 2026.

The NBS defines CoHD as the least expensive combination of locally available items that meet globally consistent food-based dietary guidelines. This measure excludes the costs of transportation and meal preparation. In February, the South-East region experienced the highest average CoHD at N1,889 per adult per day, followed by the South-West at N1,786. The North-East recorded the lowest average CoHD at N1,160 per adult per day.

At the state level, Ekiti, Imo, and Abia reported the highest CoHD at N2,075, N2,051, and N1,924, respectively. Conversely, Adamawa, Borno, and Taraba had the lowest costs, with N979, N1,040, and N1,102, respectively.

Over the past year, the CoHD has shown a steady increase. As of February 2026, it was 12.4% higher than in February 2025, rising from N1,346 to N1,513. The primary drivers of this year-on-year increase were animal-source foods, fruits, oil and fats, and vegetables, although the price of starchy staples decreased. Animal-source foods constituted the most expensive food group, accounting for 39% of the total CoHD, while fruits and vegetables were the most expensive per calorie. The NBS noted that the CoHD has risen faster than general and food inflation, and emphasized the policy implications for fostering collaboration among stakeholders to address food security.