Nigeria’s inflation rate continued to rise in April 2026, with food prices remaining a major contributor to the increase. According to the latest inflation report, headline inflation reached 15.69% year-on-year, while food inflation stood at 16.06%. The rise in food prices was influenced by higher costs of several staple items, including whole-grain millet, which is widely consumed across many parts of the country.



Analysts noted that the increase in millet prices reflects broader pressures on Nigeria’s food system, including supply chain disruptions, transportation costs, climate-related challenges, and fluctuations in agricultural production. Millet remains an important staple crop in Nigeria because of its affordability, nutritional value, and resilience to dry conditions, making it a key part of food security in semi-arid regions.



Economists believe rising food inflation may continue to affect household spending and access to affordable nutrition, particularly among low-income communities. At the same time, experts stress the need for stronger support for farmers, improved storage and distribution systems, and investment in climate-resilient crops such as millets to stabilise food supplies and control inflationary pressures.