Nigeria's imported food inflation slows to 9.19% in September as prices rise steadily
Nigeria’s imported food price index increased by 9.19% year-on-year in September 2026, marking the slowest annual growth rate since March (7.20%). The index rose from 124.1 in September 2025 to 135.5 in September 2026, reflecting continued price increases but at a reduced pace compared to August’s 12.83% and May’s peak of 14.60%. Month-on-month, the index increased just 0.07% in September, down from 0.89% in August, indicating near-stability in imported food prices recently.
This moderation occurs despite Nigeria’s substantial food import spending—N3.30 trillion in the first half of 2026 alone—while concerns persist about domestic agricultural output and household food security. The FAO warns 34.7 million Nigerians could face severe food insecurity during the upcoming lean season. Headline inflation also eased to 14.63% in September (from 15.39% in August), with food inflation at 19.59% year-on-year (down from 20.16% in September 2025), suggesting broader disinflation trends.
Imported food prices remain higher than a year ago (index up 9.2%), so households still face elevated costs for staples like rice, wheat, and oil. With local production challenges continuing, will you adjust your grocery budget toward more local alternatives, bulk-buy during price dips, or absorb the ongoing import-driven costs in your monthly planning?