The cost of maintaining a healthy diet in Nigeria has surged by 28% in just six months, according to a recent report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The report, released in October 2024, revealed that the average daily cost for one adult increased from ₦982 in March to ₦1,255 by August, reflecting the growing financial burden on Nigerian households.
Animal-Based Foods Drive Price Surge
The report highlighted that animal-based foods were the most expensive category, accounting for 37% of the total cost of a healthy diet, while only providing 13% of daily calorie intake. This disproportionate cost of nutrient-dense foods has further widened the gap between affordability and access to balanced nutrition for many Nigerians.
Regional Variations in Diet Costs
The cost of eating healthy also varies significantly across Nigeria’s regions. Ogun, Lagos, and Rivers States recorded the highest daily costs for a healthy diet, with figures standing at ₦1,641, ₦1,615, and ₦1,572 respectively. Meanwhile, Katsina, Kaduna, and Sokoto States had the lowest costs, averaging ₦880, ₦951, and ₦980 per day, positioning the North West as the least expensive region for maintaining a healthy diet.
Food Group Price Hikes Affect Overall Costs
The NBS attributed the rising costs primarily to increases in the prices of food groups such as legumes, nuts, seeds, starchy foods, and vegetables. However, the report noted a slight decrease in the overall cost of a healthy diet by 0.8% between July and August 2024, with vegetable prices seeing a notable drop of 14.5% during the same period.
Impact on Nigerian Households
Despite the slight reduction in vegetable prices, the overall cost of a healthy diet has continued to rise over the past six months, making it increasingly difficult for Nigerians to afford nutritious meals. This upward trend poses a significant challenge to food security and public health across the country, particularly in regions where incomes are lower.
Call for Action to Address Rising Food Prices
With the rising cost of a healthy diet threatening the well-being of millions of Nigerians, experts are urging the government to implement policies that will stabilise food prices and improve access to affordable, nutritious options for all citizens.
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