Fresh data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) shows a mixed pattern in food prices across Nigeria in March 2026, with several key staples recording both increases and decreases on a month-on-month and year-on-year basis. The report highlights ongoing fluctuations in the cost of living, especially for households dependent on daily food purchases.
According to the NBS Selected Food Prices Watch report released in Abuja, items such as eggs, beans, garri, onions, and ginger experienced varying price movements. While some goods showed relief when compared to March 2025, short-term increases from February 2026 suggest that price stability remains uncertain.
The report showed that the price of a crate of eggs dropped significantly by 20.12% year-on-year, falling from ₦7,670.56 in March 2025 to ₦6,127.63 in March 2026. However, on a month-on-month basis, eggs rose slightly by 2.00%, indicating a recent upward pressure in the market.
Other food items followed a similar trend. The price of 1kg of brown beans dropped sharply by 49.39% year-on-year but rose 1.41% compared to February 2026. White garri also declined by 41.19% year-on-year but increased slightly month-on-month. Onions recorded a 19.63% yearly drop but still rose 1.59% within the month, while ginger moved in the opposite direction, increasing both yearly (20.46%) and slightly month-on-month (0.61%).
Meanwhile, palm oil offered some relief, with its average price dropping by 4.71% year-on-year to ₦2,393.38 per litre. Overall, the report reflects a food market that is still unstable, where long-term declines are being offset by short-term price increases, leaving consumers navigating unpredictable food costs.
source: newtelegraph