Jollof Rice Cooking Cost Surges to N30,435 in Nigeria

According to the latest SBM Jollof Index report, the average cost to prepare a pot of jollof rice for a family of five in Nigeria has reached N30,435 in March 2026, marking a 19.4% increase from N25,486 recorded in October 2025. This surge in cost highlights the increasing pressure on household food budgets due to rising fuel and transport expenses.

The report indicates that the cost of cooking jollof rice now represents a significant portion of Nigeria's minimum wage. The inflation rate has doubled to 4.18%, signaling renewed price pressures, particularly as petrol prices have risen to N1,300 per liter and diesel has exceeded N1,500.

The report notes that the steepest increase was recorded in Port Harcourt at 55.1%, attributed to logistical constraints and energy costs. Households are adapting by reducing meal portions and substituting expensive ingredients, reflecting a decline in purchasing power and economic stress across Nigeria.