Nigeria’s imported food price index rose by 9.19% year-on-year in September 2026, its slowest annual growth since March, as the pace of price increases eased for a fourth consecutive month.
The figure was calculated by Nairametrics from the latest National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) data and reported in an article published on Sunday, October 18, 2026.
According to Nairametrics, the imported food price index increased to 135.5 points in September from 124.1 points in September 2025, representing annual growth of 9.19%.
The annual growth rate declined from 12.83% in August and a recent peak of 14.60% in May, extending the slowdown recorded since June.
The monthly figures also showed a moderation in price increases. Nairametrics reported that the index rose by 0.07% in September, compared with 0.89% in August and 1.21% in July.
Despite the slowdown, the index continued to rise, meaning imported food prices had not generally fallen. Rather, the pace of increase had eased compared with previous months.
The development came as Nigeria’s broader inflation rate moderated. The NBS reported in its Consumer Price Index report released on Thursday, October 15, 2026, that headline inflation fell to 14.63% in September from 15.39% in August.
However, annual food inflation stood at 19.59% in September, compared with 19.57% in August. On a month-on-month basis, food inflation declined to -1.55% from 1.02%, according to the NBS.
The figures reflect different movements across food categories. While the broader food index recorded a monthly decline, Nairametrics’ calculation showed that the imported food price index increased slightly during September.
The slowdown in imported food price growth could offer some relief to businesses and households exposed to imported food costs. However, the figures alone do not establish that consumers are paying less in shops or identify the specific factors responsible for the moderation.
Exchange-rate movements, international prices, shipping, import duties and domestic distribution costs can all influence the final prices of imported food products.
For Nigerian consumers, the September figures point to slower growth in imported food prices, while broader food affordability remains a concern.
