January 15, (THEWILL) — Nigeria’s headline inflation rose to 15.15 percent in December 2025 following a recalibration of the country’s inflation measurement methodology, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said.
The revision aims to provide a more accurate reflection of price trends in the economy.
The updated Consumer Price Index (CPI) uses a 2024 base year and a 12-month reference period, replacing the previous method that compared a single month year-on-year.
NBS explained that the adjustment corrects distortions from base effects and aligns the calculation with current consumption patterns.
Under the new framework, the CPI reached 131.2 in December, resulting in the 15.15 percent headline rate.
Food and non-alcoholic beverages, restaurants and accommodation, and transport were the largest contributors to the increase.
Month-on-month inflation slowed to 0.54 percent, down from November, suggesting some moderation in short-term price pressures.
Food inflation, a critical measure for households, stood at 10.84 percent year-on-year, while core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, was 18.63 percent, highlighting persistent underlying price pressures.
Analysts note that the revised methodology eliminates “artificial” spikes seen in previous comparisons and provides a clearer basis for monetary and fiscal policy decisions.
The recalibration follows Nigeria’s CPI rebasing its first in over 15 years and is expected to influence inflation tracking throughout 2026.
While the headline figure is higher than previously reported under the old system, authorities stress it reflects statistical realignment rather than sudden price shocks.
Economic observers say the updated data will help policymakers, businesses, and households make better-informed decisions as the country navigates inflationary pressures.
Ogochukwu Onwaeze
