Food inflation, fuel prices worsen Nigeria hardship

Nigeria's food inflation rose to 12.12% in February 2026 (up from 8.89%), while fuel prices hit N1,330 per liter nationwide. This compounds cost-of-living pressures despite a slight 0.04% headline inflation decline to 15.06%. NBS attributes food price increases to seasonal factors and structural issues like high energy costs, insecurity, and logistics challenges. Economists warn this reflects cost-push inflation eroding household purchasing power. Transport fares have risen nationwide due to fuel hikes triggered by Dangote Refinery's fourth price increase and retail station adjustments. The situation persists despite Nigeria's inflation rate halving since 2023.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/03/17/food-inflation-fuel-price-hike-worsen-hardship-in-nigeria/