Cost of Healthy Diet rises 3% to N1,589/day

The cost of maintaining a healthy diet in Nigeria has increased by 3.12 percent over the past month, reaching N1,589 per adult per day in April 2026. This figure represents a rise from N1,541 per adult per day in March 2026, as reported by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in its latest Cost of a Healthy Diet (CoHD) Report. The increase highlights growing economic pressures on individuals seeking to eat nutritiously, particularly given that the rise in dietary costs outpaced both overall inflation and food inflation during the same period.

According to the NBS, the surge in the CoHD was influenced by rising prices across nearly all food categories, with the exception of starchy staples. Animal-based foods emerged as the most costly segment within the healthy diet basket, contributing 40 percent of the total expenditure despite supplying only 13 percent of the total caloric intake. This disparity underscores the financial burden associated with incorporating protein-rich foods into daily meals.

In contrast, fruits and vegetables, although essential components of a balanced diet, proved to be disproportionately expensive relative to their caloric contribution. Together, these two food groups accounted for 16 percent and 14 percent of the total CoHD, respectively, but contributed just 7 percent and 5 percent of the total calories. This indicates that consumers face higher costs for nutrient-dense foods that are critical for health, yet provide relatively fewer calories compared to other food types.

Legumes, nuts, and seeds, however, represented the most affordable portion of the healthy diet, making up only 7 percent of the total cost. These items offer significant nutritional value at a lower price point, suggesting that they could play a more prominent role in helping Nigerians afford healthier eating options without incurring excessive expenses.

Regional variations in the cost of a healthy diet reveal stark disparities across the country. At the state level, Ekiti, Imo, and Bayelsa states had the highest CoHD figures, standing at N2,036, N2,018, and N1,909 per adult per day, respectively. Conversely, Adamawa, the Federal Capital Territory, and Akwa Ibom State experienced the lowest costs, with values of N1,143, N1,278, and N1,314 per adult per day.

At the zonal level, the South-East Zone saw the highest average CoHD at N1,830 per day, followed by the South-West Zone at N1,753 per day. In contrast, the North-East Zone had the lowest average cost of a healthy diet, recording N1,415 per day. These differences reflect varying levels of economic development, availability of food products, and regional pricing dynamics.

The implications of these findings extend beyond mere statistics, influencing public health policies and consumer behavior. As the cost of nutritious food continues to climb, there is an increasing need for targeted interventions aimed at improving access to affordable, healthy food choices. Policymakers and nutritionists must consider strategies such as subsidies on essential food items, support for local agriculture, and education campaigns promoting cost-effective dietary practices.

Looking ahead, experts anticipate that the trend of rising dietary costs will likely continue unless effective measures are implemented to stabilize food prices and enhance affordability. With the global economy facing uncertainties, including fluctuating commodity markets and potential supply chain disruptions, the challenge of maintaining a healthy diet becomes even more pronounced for many Nigerian households.