ABUJA – Ogun State has achieved the slowest year-on-year increase in food inflation across all Nigerian states. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) highlighted this in its April Consumer Price Index report. Food prices in Ogun rose by a relatively small 9.91 percent. This offers a stark contrast to Benue State, which saw the highest jump in food costs at a significant 51.76 percent. An NBS statistician commented, “Ogun’s inflation management efforts seem to be yielding results, especially when compared to other parts of the country.” This data on food prices reveals major differences in Nigeria.
States Battle Soaring Food Costs: A Tale of Two Trends
While Ogun food inflation offers a picture of stability, several other states are battling severe food price increases. Benue, Ekiti, and Kebbi are among the hardest hit. Ekiti State reported a year-on-year food inflation jump of 34.05 percent. Kebbi State was close behind with a 33.82 percent rise. Month-on-month figures also paint a worrying picture for some. Benue led again with a 25.59 percent monthly increase. Ekiti saw a 16.73 percent rise in food prices from the previous month. “We are experiencing significant food scarcity, partly due to insecurity and disrupted agricultural activities,” an agricultural officer in Benue explained. This highlights the difficult conditions residents face.
Insecurity Blamed for Benue’s Acute Inflation
Analysts suggest a direct connection between the ongoing violence in Benue State and its extremely high food inflation. The conflict has forced many people from their homes and farms. It has also tragically resulted in fatalities. These security challenges severely disrupt farming, food production, and supply routes. The outcome is a sharp rise in food prices for people in Benue.
Silver Linings: Some States See Monthly Relief
Despite the widespread pressure on food costs, a few states registered a welcome decrease in food inflation month-on-month. Ebonyi State saw the largest drop at -14.43 percent. Kano State followed with a -11.37 percent decrease. Ogun State also showed a positive trend here, with its month-on-month food inflation falling by -7.06 percent. An Abuja-based economist remarked, “It’s encouraging to see some states, like Ogun, managing to buck the inflationary trend despite national pressures.” The NBS April CPI figures provide these vital economic indicators.
By Abiodun Labi
