Cost of Healthy Diet Hits N1,541 Per Adult Daily in March 2026, NBS Reports
By Aboki Forex —
The average cost of a healthy diet in Nigeria rose to N1,541 per adult per day in March 2026, according to the latest data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). This represents a 4.38% increase year-on-year from N1,477 recorded in March 2025. Month-on-month, the cost climbed 1.89% from N1,513 in February 2026.
State-by-State Breakdown
Ekiti State topped the list with the highest cost of a healthy diet at N2,091 per adult per day. Imo and Abia followed closely at N2,052 and N1,970 respectively. Other states in the top ten most expensive include Lagos (N1,910), Ebonyi (N1,891), Bayelsa (N1,877), Enugu (N1,817), Osun (N1,809), Anambra (N1,764), and Ondo (N1,736). All ten states recorded costs above the national average of N1,541.
On the other end, Adamawa posted the lowest average at N1,004 per adult per day, followed by the Federal Capital Territory (N1,113) and Taraba (N1,149).
Regional Disparities
The South-East region had the highest average cost at N1,899 per day, followed by the South-West at N1,801. The North-East recorded the lowest regional average at N1,233. The report noted that most high-cost states are in the southern part of the country.
What Drives the Cost
Animal-source foods remain the most expensive component of a healthy diet, accounting for 39% of total spending but only 13% of total calories. Fruits and vegetables also take a significant share at 16% and 14% of costs relative to caloric value. Legumes, nuts, and seeds are the cheapest food group at 7%.
While prices of starchy staples and vegetables declined year-on-year, most other food groups increased, pushing the overall healthy diet cost higher.
Urban vs Rural Divide
Ekiti Urban was the most expensive location nationwide at N2,288 per adult per day, while Adamawa Rural was the cheapest at N979. The NBS identified white maize grains, white beans, dried white shrimps, palm oil, and garri as the least expensive locally available food groups for meeting recommended dietary requirements.
Earlier reports from the Nigerian Customs Service listed live or dead birds, including frozen poultry, pork, and beef, as prohibited imports for 2026. These items will be seized at airports, land borders, and ports.