Nigerians spent N1.4t on food, beverages, and vegetable imports in three months – NBS

Nigeria reportedly spent a total of N1.4 trillion on importing prepared foodstuffs, beverages, and vegetable products between July and September 2025, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The figures highlight the country’s heavy reliance on foreign food supplies despite government efforts to boost local production.

The breakdown shows that prepared foodstuffs, beverages, spirits, and vinegar accounted for N748 billion, while vegetable products were imported at a cost of N697 billion within the same quarter.

The report also revealed that live animals and animal products worth N382 billion and animal and vegetable fats and oils valued at N140 billion were imported during this period.

Beyond food, Nigeria’s imports extended to plastics and rubber products at N933 billion, vehicles, aircraft, and parts at N1.6 trillion, and boilers, machinery, and mechanical appliances topping N2.5 trillion. Textile materials and articles were imported at N248.3 billion, underscoring widespread import dependence amid rising food prices and pressure on foreign exchange.

The NBS data also shows that between 2020 and September 2025, Nigeria spent N827.1 billion on arms and ammunition, with spending rising sharply in 2024 to N520 billion and N50.2 billion in the first nine months of 2025. The trend has raised concerns over the proliferation of weapons in the country, especially amid warnings from the United States about the spread of arms among violent extremist groups in Nigeria following its withdrawal from Niger.

The figures underscore Nigeria’s continuing dependence on imports for essential food items and other critical goods, highlighting challenges for domestic production and economic self-sufficiency.