Top 10 most affordable states to live in Nigeria — April 2026 

Nigeria’s cost-of-living landscape in April 2026 reveals marked differences across states, with inflation trends continuing to play a decisive role in shaping household purchasing power.

According to the latest data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), states with lower inflation rates are effectively the most affordable places to live, as they experience slower price increases compared to the rest of the country.

At the national level, headline inflation rose to 15.69% in April 2026, up from 15.38% in March 2026.

This represents a 0.31 percentage point increase, signalling a renewed uptick in consumer prices after a brief moderation in the previous month.

However, national averages often conceal the more complex realities at the sub-national level. In practical terms, the cost of living varies significantly from one state to another, influenced by a range of structural and economic factors. These include security conditions, transportation and logistics costs, supply chain efficiency, levels of agricultural production, and the overall functioning of local markets.

While some states continue to experience relatively stable or only mild price increases, others are facing more pronounced inflationary pressures that directly impact household budgets, particularly for food and essential goods.

April’s inflation dynamics also unfolded against a backdrop of heightened global economic uncertainty. Key external pressures include:

• Ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have contributed to volatility in global oil prices
• Instability around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global crude oil transportation, raising concerns about potential supply disruptions
• Rising crude oil prices, which tend to push up fuel costs and, in turn, increase transportation and commodity prices across economies
• Historical patterns showing that similar geopolitical shocks often transmit inflationary pressures to emerging markets, including Nigeria

Against this external and domestic backdrop, state-level inflation differences become even more critical in understanding real living costs.

Based on the latest state-level headline inflation data for April 2026, this analysis identifies the Top 10 most affordable states to live in Nigeria, ranked by the lowest inflation rates. The ranking also takes into account food inflation trends, given their direct and immediate impact on household expenditure patterns across the country.

Niger — 11.8%  

Niger recorded an annual inflation rate of 11.0% in April 2026, rising from 8.6% in March, reflecting a noticeable uptick in price pressures within the state. However, a key contrasting trend emerged in food prices, as food inflation eased to 14.1% in April from 19.0% in March, suggesting some moderation in staple food cost increases despite the broader inflation rise.

In response to persistent inflationary pressures, the Niger State Government has prioritised interventions aimed at strengthening food system resilience. A major focus has been on agricultural investment to expand food production, improve supply availability, and ultimately moderate market prices. These efforts are complemented by ongoing measures to improve rural security, particularly in farming communities, to ensure that agricultural activities are not disrupted and supply chains remain stable.

The state also continues to benefit from significant federal and regional infrastructure developments. Notably, projects such as the Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Plant (700MW) contribute to broader energy availability in the region, with indirect effects on productivity, storage, and agro-processing capacity. Together, these interventions position Niger as a state where structural investments are increasingly being used as tools to manage inflationary pressure over the medium term.

Nasarawa — 11.3%  

Nasarawa recorded an annual inflation rate of 11.3% in April 2026, a significant decline from 19.5% in March, indicating a sharp moderation in overall price pressures within the state. In a similar trend, food inflation also eased considerably to 7.4% in April from 14.1% in March, reflecting improved price stability in key consumer essentials.

To further contain inflationary pressures and sustain this downward trend, the Nasarawa State Government is anchoring its economic strategy on a N545.2 billion 2026 budget designed to strengthen productivity and reduce structural cost drivers. A major pillar of this framework is infrastructure development, alongside targeted support for agriculture and efforts to expand internally generated revenue (IGR).

A substantial portion of the budget has been allocated to capital projects, with about N157.80 billion dedicated to road infrastructure and transport connectivity. Key projects, including the 55km Lafia–Kwandere–Garaku road, are expected to improve market access, reduce logistics costs, and ease the movement of goods and services across the state.

In addition, the government is pushing agricultural support programmes and food security initiatives aimed at boosting local production and reducing dependence on imported food items. On the revenue side, reforms such as digital tax collection systems are being implemented to broaden the tax base, improve compliance, and enhance fiscal sustainability.

  Ebonyi — 10.8%

Ebonyi recorded an annual inflation rate of 10.8% in April 2026, down from 13.3% in March, reflecting a moderation in overall price pressures within the state. However, the food component moved in the opposite direction, with food inflation rising to 16.5% in April from 12.5% in March, highlighting renewed pressure on staple food items despite broader inflation easing.

In response, the Ebonyi State Government has intensified efforts to address inflationary drivers, particularly in the agricultural and food supply chain. A key focus has been placed on boosting agricultural productivity through the distribution of subsidised inputs to farmers, aimed at increasing local output and reducing dependence on imported food items.

The administration of Governor Francis Nwifuru has also pursued policies targeted at reducing the cost of staple foods, including rice, by supporting local production. These interventions contributed to a notable decline in rice prices from about N40,000 to between N22,000 and N25,000 in early 2025, reflecting the impact of increased domestic supply.

Complementing these efforts is a broader infrastructure and economic development strategy anchored in the state’s N884 billion 2026 budget, which prioritises projects designed to reduce logistics and production costs. Among the initiatives is the proposed establishment of a state-owned cement factory, intended to lower the cost of building materials and stimulate local industry.

The government is also upgrading key commercial infrastructure, including facilities at the Margaret Umahi International Market in Abakaliki, alongside measures to regulate and stabilise shop prices. Improvements in water supply systems further support both household welfare and agricultural productivity.

Abuja — 9.2%  

Abuja recorded an annual inflation rate of 9.2% in April 2026, a sharp decline from 16.7% in March, indicating a significant easing in overall price pressures within the Federal Capital Territory.

However, the food component moved in the opposite direction. Food inflation rose to 18.2% in April from 12.5% in March, reflecting continued pressure on staple food items despite improvements in the broader inflation basket.

In response to rising food costs, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), working in coordination with the Federal Government, has implemented a series of short-term relief and supply-side interventions. A key measure includes the distribution of food assistance, including 20 trucks of rice supplied to the FCT, aimed at cushioning vulnerable households.

The Federal Government also supported this intervention by deploying large-scale food relief—each truck containing an estimated 1,200 bags of 25kg rice—to help improve market supply and ease immediate price pressures.

Beyond emergency relief, authorities have also pursued agricultural support initiatives and policy coordination aimed at stabilising food supply chains. These efforts include collaboration on measures such as the temporary suspension of import duties on selected essential food items, designed to improve availability and reduce retail prices.

Oyo — 8.6%  

Oyo recorded an annual inflation rate of 8.6% in April 2026, down from 11.34% in March, indicating a noticeable moderation in overall price pressures within the state. However, the food component moved sharply in the opposite direction, with food inflation rising to 15.3% in April from 4.9% in March, signalling renewed pressure on staple food prices despite easing headline inflation.

In response to rising living costs, the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde has implemented a series of targeted interventions under its broader economic expansion framework, aimed at cushioning households and sustaining growth.

A key short-term relief measure was the approval of a N10,000 transportation allowance for public sector workers, designed to ease commuting costs amid persistent fuel and mobility pressures. This was further supported by collaboration with the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Initiative, which is facilitating the deployment of more affordable CNG-powered buses to reduce transport fares across the state.

The state’s N891.98 billion 2026 Appropriation Law places strong emphasis on capital expenditure, which accounts for about 56.37% of the total budget. This spending priority is targeted at improving infrastructure, strengthening local production capacity, and enhancing logistics efficiency—key drivers in reducing the overall cost of goods and services.

Social protection has also been expanded. In January 2026, the government approved a 200% increase in monthly gratuity payments to retirees, and by April, over N37 billion had been disbursed, providing significant financial relief to pensioners while also stimulating household consumption.

In agriculture, continued investment in Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZs) is helping to boost value addition, reduce post-harvest losses, and stabilize food supply chains. This is complemented by the OD-CARES programme, which provides bi-monthly cash transfers of N20,000 to vulnerable households, alongside grants to small businesses to stimulate grassroots economic activity.

  Plateau — 7.8%  

Plateau recorded an annual inflation rate of 7.8% in April 2026, a sharp decline from 19.6% in March, indicating a significant easing of overall price pressures within the state. However, food inflation remained relatively stable, standing at 15.4% in April compared to 15.7% in March, reflecting only a marginal improvement in staple food price dynamics.

Under the administration of Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the Plateau State Government has adopted a targeted approach to addressing inflation, focusing on transport reform, food affordability, and economic stimulus measures.

A major intervention has been the introduction of Metro Buses within the Jos–Bukuru metropolitan corridor, which has significantly reduced transportation costs for commuters. In some cases, fares reportedly dropped from about N2,400 to N400, easing mobility costs for residents and indirectly reducing the price of goods and services across the urban economy.

To cushion households against rising food prices, the government has also implemented subsidized food distribution programmes, aimed at improving access to essential commodities for vulnerable populations.

On the economic development side, Plateau State signed a N4 billion Memorandum of Understanding with the Bank of Industry (BOI) in March 2026. The agreement is designed to expand access to affordable financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), supporting job creation and strengthening the state’s productive base.

In addition, the government continues to prioritise agricultural development and infrastructure investment, with the aim of boosting local production, improving supply chains, and reducing long-term inflationary pressures.

Kaduna — 7.2%  

Kaduna recorded an annual inflation rate of 7.2% in April 2026, down from 10.4% in March, reflecting a further easing in overall consumer price pressures across the state. However, food inflation moved sharply higher, rising to 18.4% in April from 10.2% in March, signalling renewed pressure on household spending, particularly on essential food items.

In response to rising living costs, the Kaduna State Government under Governor Uba Sani has intensified policy interventions anchored on its 2026 “Budget of Transformation for Inclusive Development,” a fiscal framework designed to promote economic resilience, strengthen productivity, and shield households from inflationary shocks.

At the core of the strategy is a strong emphasis on agriculture and food security, which accounts for about 11% of the state’s total budgetary allocation. The investment builds on earlier efforts to expand local food production, improve agricultural value chains, and strengthen distribution networks—critical measures aimed at stabilising food supply and reducing exposure to external market disruptions.

Beyond agriculture, the state’s economic plan also prioritises fiscal discipline, infrastructure development, and targeted social interventions, with the goal of sustaining macroeconomic stability while supporting vulnerable populations.

Kaduna continues to benefit from a relatively diversified economic base, combining the advantages of both urban and rural economies. Compared with many states in northern Nigeria, it enjoys stronger transport infrastructure, an expanding industrial sector, and the presence of key administrative and commercial institutions. These structural advantages support employment creation, business activity, and supply chain efficiency—factors that help moderate inflationary pressures over the medium term.

  Jigawa — 7.0%  

Jigawa recorded an annual inflation rate of 7.0% in April 2026, down from 10.7% in March, reflecting continued moderation in overall consumer price pressures across the state. The state also posted one of the lowest food inflation rates in the country, with food inflation easing to 6.2% in April from 10.0% in March, highlighting improving stability in the prices of essential food items.

Following the signing of the 2026 Appropriation Law by Governor Umar Namadi, the Jigawa State Government has stepped up efforts to tackle inflation through a combination of capital-intensive investments and targeted economic reforms designed to lower living costs, boost local productivity, and strengthen food security.

The state’s N901.84 billion 2026 budget places significant emphasis on agriculture and infrastructure, two sectors viewed as critical to addressing inflationary pressures at their source by improving supply, reducing production bottlenecks, and enhancing market efficiency.

As part of this strategy, the government approved an investment of about N1.6 billion for the procurement of rice parboiling stoves and solar bubble dryers, aimed at expanding agro-processing capacity, reducing post-harvest losses, and increasing the value of locally produced crops.

Borno — 6.7% 

Borno recorded an annual inflation rate of 6.7% in April 2026, down sharply from 17.7% in March, marking one of the most significant declines in headline inflation among Nigerian states during the period. The state also posted the lowest food inflation rate in the country, with food inflation dropping to just 1.7% in April from 17.3% in March, reflecting a substantial easing in food price pressures.

In response to the cost-of-living challenges facing households, the Borno State Government under Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has implemented a broad mix of social protection and productivity-driven interventions aimed at stabilising prices and improving household purchasing power.

A major component of the state’s strategy has been large-scale food distribution programmes, designed to improve access to essential commodities for vulnerable households and ease pressure on local food markets.

The government has also intensified agricultural support initiatives, including interventions aimed at expanding cultivation, improving access to farm inputs, and boosting local food production to strengthen supply and reduce dependence on external markets.

To address transportation-related inflation, the state has introduced transport subsidy programmes intended to lower commuting costs for residents and reduce logistics expenses across supply chains.

In addition, the administration approved a 40% salary increase for civil servants, a measure designed to cushion public sector workers against inflationary pressures, strengthen household incomes, and sustain consumer demand.

Edo — 5.9% 

Edo recorded the lowest annual inflation rate in the country at 5.9% in April 2026, down significantly from 11.17% in March, underscoring a sharp moderation in overall consumer price pressures across the state. However, food inflation moved in the opposite direction, rising to 23.0% in April from 19.4% in March, indicating that food prices remain a key source of pressure on household spending.

In response to prevailing economic conditions, the Edo State Government under Governor Monday Okpebholo has unveiled a N939.85 billion 2026 appropriation plan, christened the “Budget of Hope and Growth,” aimed at accelerating economic expansion, strengthening local productivity, and cushioning residents from the impact of rising living costs.

The fiscal framework is designed to stimulate economic activity through increased local production, strategic infrastructure upgrades, and targeted support for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), with the broader objective of driving job creation and improving income opportunities.

A defining feature of the budget is its strong emphasis on capital expenditure, which accounts for about 68% of total spending. Of this amount, approximately N614.2 billion has been earmarked for the economic sector, with major allocations directed toward road rehabilitation, flyover construction, and drainage infrastructure.

These investments are expected to reduce transportation bottlenecks, improve the movement of goods and services, lower logistics costs, and strengthen market efficiency—factors that are critical to sustaining price stability over the medium term.

Complementing these infrastructure investments is the rollout of the Business Enabling Reforms Action Plan (BERAP), an initiative designed to improve the ease of doing business, attract private sector investment, and unlock growth across key sectors of the state’s economy.

Nigeria’s cost-of-living landscape in April 2026 reveals marked differences across states, with inflation trends continuing to play a decisive role in shaping household purchasing power.

According to the latest data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), states with lower inflation rates are effectively the most affordable places to live, as they experience slower price increases compared to the rest of the country.

At the national level, headline inflation rose to 15.69% in April 2026, up from 15.38% in March 2026.

This represents a 0.31 percentage point increase, signalling a renewed uptick in consumer prices after a brief moderation in the previous month.

However, national averages often conceal the more complex realities at the sub-national level. In practical terms, the cost of living varies significantly from one state to another, influenced by a range of structural and economic factors. These include security conditions, transportation and logistics costs, supply chain efficiency, levels of agricultural production, and the overall functioning of local markets.

While some states continue to experience relatively stable or only mild price increases, others are facing more pronounced inflationary pressures that directly impact household budgets, particularly for food and essential goods.

April’s inflation dynamics also unfolded against a backdrop of heightened global economic uncertainty. Key external pressures include:

• Ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have contributed to volatility in global oil prices
• Instability around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global crude oil transportation, raising concerns about potential supply disruptions
• Rising crude oil prices, which tend to push up fuel costs and, in turn, increase transportation and commodity prices across economies
• Historical patterns showing that similar geopolitical shocks often transmit inflationary pressures to emerging markets, including Nigeria

Against this external and domestic backdrop, state-level inflation differences become even more critical in understanding real living costs.

Based on the latest state-level headline inflation data for April 2026, this analysis identifies the Top 10 most affordable states to live in Nigeria, ranked by the lowest inflation rates. The ranking also takes into account food inflation trends, given their direct and immediate impact on household expenditure patterns across the country.

Niger — 11.8%  

Niger recorded an annual inflation rate of 11.0% in April 2026, rising from 8.6% in March, reflecting a noticeable uptick in price pressures within the state. However, a key contrasting trend emerged in food prices, as food inflation eased to 14.1% in April from 19.0% in March, suggesting some moderation in staple food cost increases despite the broader inflation rise.

In response to persistent inflationary pressures, the Niger State Government has prioritised interventions aimed at strengthening food system resilience. A major focus has been on agricultural investment to expand food production, improve supply availability, and ultimately moderate market prices. These efforts are complemented by ongoing measures to improve rural security, particularly in farming communities, to ensure that agricultural activities are not disrupted and supply chains remain stable.

The state also continues to benefit from significant federal and regional infrastructure developments. Notably, projects such as the Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Plant (700MW) contribute to broader energy availability in the region, with indirect effects on productivity, storage, and agro-processing capacity. Together, these interventions position Niger as a state where structural investments are increasingly being used as tools to manage inflationary pressure over the medium term.

Nasarawa — 11.3%  

Nasarawa recorded an annual inflation rate of 11.3% in April 2026, a significant decline from 19.5% in March, indicating a sharp moderation in overall price pressures within the state. In a similar trend, food inflation also eased considerably to 7.4% in April from 14.1% in March, reflecting improved price stability in key consumer essentials.

To further contain inflationary pressures and sustain this downward trend, the Nasarawa State Government is anchoring its economic strategy on a N545.2 billion 2026 budget designed to strengthen productivity and reduce structural cost drivers. A major pillar of this framework is infrastructure development, alongside targeted support for agriculture and efforts to expand internally generated revenue (IGR).

A substantial portion of the budget has been allocated to capital projects, with about N157.80 billion dedicated to road infrastructure and transport connectivity. Key projects, including the 55km Lafia–Kwandere–Garaku road, are expected to improve market access, reduce logistics costs, and ease the movement of goods and services across the state.

In addition, the government is pushing agricultural support programmes and food security initiatives aimed at boosting local production and reducing dependence on imported food items. On the revenue side, reforms such as digital tax collection systems are being implemented to broaden the tax base, improve compliance, and enhance fiscal sustainability.

  Ebonyi — 10.8%

Ebonyi recorded an annual inflation rate of 10.8% in April 2026, down from 13.3% in March, reflecting a moderation in overall price pressures within the state. However, the food component moved in the opposite direction, with food inflation rising to 16.5% in April from 12.5% in March, highlighting renewed pressure on staple food items despite broader inflation easing.

In response, the Ebonyi State Government has intensified efforts to address inflationary drivers, particularly in the agricultural and food supply chain. A key focus has been placed on boosting agricultural productivity through the distribution of subsidised inputs to farmers, aimed at increasing local output and reducing dependence on imported food items.

The administration of Governor Francis Nwifuru has also pursued policies targeted at reducing the cost of staple foods, including rice, by supporting local production. These interventions contributed to a notable decline in rice prices from about N40,000 to between N22,000 and N25,000 in early 2025, reflecting the impact of increased domestic supply.

Complementing these efforts is a broader infrastructure and economic development strategy anchored in the state’s N884 billion 2026 budget, which prioritises projects designed to reduce logistics and production costs. Among the initiatives is the proposed establishment of a state-owned cement factory, intended to lower the cost of building materials and stimulate local industry.

The government is also upgrading key commercial infrastructure, including facilities at the Margaret Umahi International Market in Abakaliki, alongside measures to regulate and stabilise shop prices. Improvements in water supply systems further support both household welfare and agricultural productivity.

Abuja — 9.2%  

Abuja recorded an annual inflation rate of 9.2% in April 2026, a sharp decline from 16.7% in March, indicating a significant easing in overall price pressures within the Federal Capital Territory.

However, the food component moved in the opposite direction. Food inflation rose to 18.2% in April from 12.5% in March, reflecting continued pressure on staple food items despite improvements in the broader inflation basket.

In response to rising food costs, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), working in coordination with the Federal Government, has implemented a series of short-term relief and supply-side interventions. A key measure includes the distribution of food assistance, including 20 trucks of rice supplied to the FCT, aimed at cushioning vulnerable households.

The Federal Government also supported this intervention by deploying large-scale food relief—each truck containing an estimated 1,200 bags of 25kg rice—to help improve market supply and ease immediate price pressures.

Beyond emergency relief, authorities have also pursued agricultural support initiatives and policy coordination aimed at stabilising food supply chains. These efforts include collaboration on measures such as the temporary suspension of import duties on selected essential food items, designed to improve availability and reduce retail prices.

Oyo — 8.6%  

Oyo recorded an annual inflation rate of 8.6% in April 2026, down from 11.34% in March, indicating a noticeable moderation in overall price pressures within the state. However, the food component moved sharply in the opposite direction, with food inflation rising to 15.3% in April from 4.9% in March, signalling renewed pressure on staple food prices despite easing headline inflation.

In response to rising living costs, the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde has implemented a series of targeted interventions under its broader economic expansion framework, aimed at cushioning households and sustaining growth.

A key short-term relief measure was the approval of a N10,000 transportation allowance for public sector workers, designed to ease commuting costs amid persistent fuel and mobility pressures. This was further supported by collaboration with the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Initiative, which is facilitating the deployment of more affordable CNG-powered buses to reduce transport fares across the state.

The state’s N891.98 billion 2026 Appropriation Law places strong emphasis on capital expenditure, which accounts for about 56.37% of the total budget. This spending priority is targeted at improving infrastructure, strengthening local production capacity, and enhancing logistics efficiency—key drivers in reducing the overall cost of goods and services.

Social protection has also been expanded. In January 2026, the government approved a 200% increase in monthly gratuity payments to retirees, and by April, over N37 billion had been disbursed, providing significant financial relief to pensioners while also stimulating household consumption.

In agriculture, continued investment in Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZs) is helping to boost value addition, reduce post-harvest losses, and stabilize food supply chains. This is complemented by the OD-CARES programme, which provides bi-monthly cash transfers of N20,000 to vulnerable households, alongside grants to small businesses to stimulate grassroots economic activity.

  Plateau — 7.8%  

Plateau recorded an annual inflation rate of 7.8% in April 2026, a sharp decline from 19.6% in March, indicating a significant easing of overall price pressures within the state. However, food inflation remained relatively stable, standing at 15.4% in April compared to 15.7% in March, reflecting only a marginal improvement in staple food price dynamics.

Under the administration of Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the Plateau State Government has adopted a targeted approach to addressing inflation, focusing on transport reform, food affordability, and economic stimulus measures.

A major intervention has been the introduction of Metro Buses within the Jos–Bukuru metropolitan corridor, which has significantly reduced transportation costs for commuters. In some cases, fares reportedly dropped from about N2,400 to N400, easing mobility costs for residents and indirectly reducing the price of goods and services across the urban economy.

To cushion households against rising food prices, the government has also implemented subsidized food distribution programmes, aimed at improving access to essential commodities for vulnerable populations.

On the economic development side, Plateau State signed a N4 billion Memorandum of Understanding with the Bank of Industry (BOI) in March 2026. The agreement is designed to expand access to affordable financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), supporting job creation and strengthening the state’s productive base.

In addition, the government continues to prioritise agricultural development and infrastructure investment, with the aim of boosting local production, improving supply chains, and reducing long-term inflationary pressures.

Kaduna — 7.2%  

Kaduna recorded an annual inflation rate of 7.2% in April 2026, down from 10.4% in March, reflecting a further easing in overall consumer price pressures across the state. However, food inflation moved sharply higher, rising to 18.4% in April from 10.2% in March, signalling renewed pressure on household spending, particularly on essential food items.

In response to rising living costs, the Kaduna State Government under Governor Uba Sani has intensified policy interventions anchored on its 2026 “Budget of Transformation for Inclusive Development,” a fiscal framework designed to promote economic resilience, strengthen productivity, and shield households from inflationary shocks.

At the core of the strategy is a strong emphasis on agriculture and food security, which accounts for about 11% of the state’s total budgetary allocation. The investment builds on earlier efforts to expand local food production, improve agricultural value chains, and strengthen distribution networks—critical measures aimed at stabilising food supply and reducing exposure to external market disruptions.

Beyond agriculture, the state’s economic plan also prioritises fiscal discipline, infrastructure development, and targeted social interventions, with the goal of sustaining macroeconomic stability while supporting vulnerable populations.

Kaduna continues to benefit from a relatively diversified economic base, combining the advantages of both urban and rural economies. Compared with many states in northern Nigeria, it enjoys stronger transport infrastructure, an expanding industrial sector, and the presence of key administrative and commercial institutions. These structural advantages support employment creation, business activity, and supply chain efficiency—factors that help moderate inflationary pressures over the medium term.

  Jigawa — 7.0%  

Jigawa recorded an annual inflation rate of 7.0% in April 2026, down from 10.7% in March, reflecting continued moderation in overall consumer price pressures across the state. The state also posted one of the lowest food inflation rates in the country, with food inflation easing to 6.2% in April from 10.0% in March, highlighting improving stability in the prices of essential food items.

Following the signing of the 2026 Appropriation Law by Governor Umar Namadi, the Jigawa State Government has stepped up efforts to tackle inflation through a combination of capital-intensive investments and targeted economic reforms designed to lower living costs, boost local productivity, and strengthen food security.

The state’s N901.84 billion 2026 budget places significant emphasis on agriculture and infrastructure, two sectors viewed as critical to addressing inflationary pressures at their source by improving supply, reducing production bottlenecks, and enhancing market efficiency.

As part of this strategy, the government approved an investment of about N1.6 billion for the procurement of rice parboiling stoves and solar bubble dryers, aimed at expanding agro-processing capacity, reducing post-harvest losses, and increasing the value of locally produced crops.

Borno — 6.7% 

Borno recorded an annual inflation rate of 6.7% in April 2026, down sharply from 17.7% in March, marking one of the most significant declines in headline inflation among Nigerian states during the period. The state also posted the lowest food inflation rate in the country, with food inflation dropping to just 1.7% in April from 17.3% in March, reflecting a substantial easing in food price pressures.

In response to the cost-of-living challenges facing households, the Borno State Government under Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has implemented a broad mix of social protection and productivity-driven interventions aimed at stabilising prices and improving household purchasing power.

A major component of the state’s strategy has been large-scale food distribution programmes, designed to improve access to essential commodities for vulnerable households and ease pressure on local food markets.

The government has also intensified agricultural support initiatives, including interventions aimed at expanding cultivation, improving access to farm inputs, and boosting local food production to strengthen supply and reduce dependence on external markets.

To address transportation-related inflation, the state has introduced transport subsidy programmes intended to lower commuting costs for residents and reduce logistics expenses across supply chains.

In addition, the administration approved a 40% salary increase for civil servants, a measure designed to cushion public sector workers against inflationary pressures, strengthen household incomes, and sustain consumer demand.

Edo — 5.9% 

Edo recorded the lowest annual inflation rate in the country at 5.9% in April 2026, down significantly from 11.17% in March, underscoring a sharp moderation in overall consumer price pressures across the state. However, food inflation moved in the opposite direction, rising to 23.0% in April from 19.4% in March, indicating that food prices remain a key source of pressure on household spending.

In response to prevailing economic conditions, the Edo State Government under Governor Monday Okpebholo has unveiled a N939.85 billion 2026 appropriation plan, christened the “Budget of Hope and Growth,” aimed at accelerating economic expansion, strengthening local productivity, and cushioning residents from the impact of rising living costs.

The fiscal framework is designed to stimulate economic activity through increased local production, strategic infrastructure upgrades, and targeted support for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), with the broader objective of driving job creation and improving income opportunities.

A defining feature of the budget is its strong emphasis on capital expenditure, which accounts for about 68% of total spending. Of this amount, approximately N614.2 billion has been earmarked for the economic sector, with major allocations directed toward road rehabilitation, flyover construction, and drainage infrastructure.

These investments are expected to reduce transportation bottlenecks, improve the movement of goods and services, lower logistics costs, and strengthen market efficiency—factors that are critical to sustaining price stability over the medium term.

Complementing these infrastructure investments is the rollout of the Business Enabling Reforms Action Plan (BERAP), an initiative designed to improve the ease of doing business, attract private sector investment, and unlock growth across key sectors of the state’s economy.