Nigeria’s food inflation jumped to a six-month high in July, piling pressure on households and farmers across the country.
According to the latest data, the food inflation rate rose to 20.31% in July 2026, up from 20.10% in June. This is the highest level recorded since January and reflects sustained increases in the prices of staples like rice, beans, tomatoes, and cooking oil.For farmers, the numbers point to a troubling trend.
While input costs remain high, consumer demand is weakening. Many buyers are reducing purchases or switching to cheaper alternatives, leaving produce unsold in markets. Farmers in the North and Middle Belt report post-harvest losses rising as buyers hold back.The cost pressures go beyond the farm gate. Diesel, fertilizer, and transportation costs have all climbed this year, squeezing profit margins.
With inflation at 20.31%, traders say sales volumes have dropped by an estimated 15-20% in major markets compared to the same period last year.Agricultural groups are now urging government intervention through subsidies, better storage facilities, and improved logistics to cut costs.
Without support, they warn that the combination of high inflation and weak demand could trigger a deeper food supply crisis in the coming months.
