Nigeria’s headline inflation rose to 15.93 percent in May 2026, marking the third consecutive monthly increase this year.
The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) disclosed the figure in its latest Consumer Price Index report released on Monday.
It showed a slight rise from 15.69 per cent recorded in April 2026.
The bureau, however, noted a significant drop compared to 26.06 per cent recorded in May 2025.
According to the report, price levels continued to rise month-on-month but at a slower pace.
Month-on-month inflation stood at 1.75 per cent in May 2026.
This represents a decline from 2.13 per cent recorded in April 2026.
The NBS said the slowdown suggests a moderation in the rate of price increases.
Food inflation also increased year-on-year to 16.96 percent in May 2026.
This was higher than 16.68 per cent recorded in April but lower than 24.55 percent in May 2025.
On a monthly basis, food inflation eased to 2.98 per cent in May.
The bureau attributed price movements to changes in the cost of staple foods such as yam, maize, tomatoes, pepper, cassava and rice substitutes.
It also cited increases in prices of onions, plantain, crayfish and cowpea among key drivers.
State-level data showed sharp variations in food inflation across the country.
Adamawa, Kwara and Rivers recorded the highest year-on-year increases.
Borno, Taraba and Bayelsa recorded the lowest growth rates.
On a monthly basis, Bauchi, Ogun and Jigawa saw the steepest food price increases.
Meanwhile, Niger, Katsina and Gombe recorded slower or negative movements in food inflation.
Economists say the mixed trends reflect uneven supply conditions and transport costs across states.
The NBS report highlights continuing pressure on household incomes despite signs of slower monthly inflation growth.
