KEY POINTS

• Nigeria headline inflation slowed to 15.15 percent in December 2025, reflecting a revised statistical method by the NBS.
• The Consumer Price Index climbed to 131.2, showing continued price pressures despite slower inflation.
• Inflation dropped sharply compared with December 2024, pointing to base effects and policy adjustments.

Nigeria headline inflation rate declined to 15.15 percent in December 2025, according to figures released by the National Bureau of Statistics.

The reading follows a recalibration of the inflation index, which the agency says better reflects present economic conditions.

The December figure is higher than the 14.45 percent reported in November, but the NBS stressed that the increase reflects changes in methodology rather than a sudden surge in prices.

The bureau adjusted the reference period used in calculating inflation to a 12 month index, replacing an older base year that no longer captured spending realities.

Officials said the update was necessary to align inflation data with current consumption patterns, shifts in income, and structural changes in the economy.

CPI edges higher

Despite the easing, consumer prices continued to rise. The Consumer Price Index increased to 131.2 in December, up by 0.7 points from November.

The CPI tracks the average change in prices paid by consumers for goods and services over time.

The rise suggests households are still grappling with higher costs, particularly for food, transportation, and basic services. Analysts say the CPI movement underscores the gap between statistical trends and everyday experiences of consumers.

Economists noted that while the growth has slowed, prices remain elevated compared to previous years, limiting the relief felt by many Nigerians.

On a year on year basis, headline figures fell by 19.65 percent compared with December 2024. The NBS attributed much of the drop to base effects, as inflation was significantly higher in the corresponding period last year.

The annual decline may offer some reassurance to policymakers who have tightened monetary conditions to rein in inflation. Still, experts caution that sustained improvement will depend on exchange rate stability, food supply, and energy costs.