SUNTV Global Channel, January 2, 2026
Nigeria spent a staggering N1.4 trillion importing prepared foodstuffs, beverages, and vegetable products between July and September 2025, according to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
The figures reveal the country’s continued dependence on foreign food supplies despite repeated government promises to boost local production. Prepared foodstuffs, beverages, spirits, and vinegar alone accounted for N748 billion, while vegetable products made up N697 billion of imports in the same period.
This massive expenditure comes amid rising food prices and hunger in the country, compounded by the growing dollar-to-naira exchange rate.
The NBS data also shows that live animals and animal products worth N382 billion and animal/vegetable fats and oils valued at N140 billion were imported during the third quarter of 2025.
Beyond food, Nigeria spent heavily on other imports, including:
- Plastics and rubber products: N933 billion
- Vehicles, aircraft, and related parts: N1.6 trillion
- Boilers, machinery, and mechanical appliances: N2.5 trillion
- Textile materials and articles: N248.3 billion
The statistics highlight Nigeria’s high reliance on imports across critical sectors, even as domestic production struggles to meet demand.
Meanwhile, arms and ammunition imports remain significant. Between 2020 and September 2025, Nigeria spent N827.1 billion on weapons, with a sharp increase in 2024 to N520 billion, raising concerns about the proliferation of arms amid insecurity.
The NBS data underscores the dual challenge facing Nigeria: food dependency and security threats, at a time when economic pressures are squeezing citizens across the country.
