Nigeria inflation December 2025 slows to 15.15%, with food prices easing, yet high living costs continue to strain households

Nigeria closed 2025 with headline inflation at 15.15 per cent, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has reported, marking a sharp decline from the 34.80 per cent recorded in December 2024.

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The drop of 19.65 percentage points signals a fragile return to price stability after a turbulent economic period.

The NBS said the Consumer Price Index rose to 131.2 points in December, up slightly from 130.5 points in November.

Despite the monthly increase, year-on-year inflation continued to ease, falling from 17.33 per cent in November to 15.15 per cent in December.

Food inflation, a major contributor to household hardship, moderated to 10.84 per cent, reflecting improved supply conditions and slower price surges.

Analysts linked the moderation to peak harvest flows, higher domestic production, and market adjustments following government interventions.

The year began with inflation at 24.48 per cent, after the NBS rebased the Consumer Price Index to align with current economic realities.

The rebasing updated the composition and weights of goods and services, improving the accuracy of inflation measurement.

Despite the easing, living costs remain high, with wages lagging behind price growth. Households have adapted by cutting consumption and reprioritising spending.

In Lagos, inflation stood at 17.5 per cent, above the national average, intensifying pressure on urban workers. Many professionals rely on side gigs, delay life plans, or adjust lifestyles to cope.

“The slowdown in inflation offers cautious optimism, but real relief will depend on income growth, sustained price stability and policies that translate macroeconomic gains into household breathing room,” analysts said.

Although the moderation in food prices provides some relief, costs for items such as cooking oil and processed foods continue to climb, keeping household budgets under strain.

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Nigeria’s inflation slowdown in December 2025 offers a turning point in the country’s recent economic challenges, but Nigerians will need further income growth and market stability for lasting relief.