CPI Inflation Rate Rises to 1.1% in May 2026

​While the month-on-month figure indicates that inflation remains relatively low compared to the previous year, officials warn that households and businesses are still feeling the squeeze of moderate, steady price hikes.

​Food Prices Drive Upward Trend
​Addressing journalists at the weekly economic briefing, Government Statistician Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu pointed to the food sector as the primary engine behind the month’s inflationary pressure.

​Food inflation climbed significantly to 3.3% in May, up from the 2.2% recorded in April. Dr. Iddrisu attributed this spike to noticeable price increases in daily staples and essential commodities, including:
​Fresh tomatoes and green plantains
​River fish and smoked herrings
​Ginger, ​Cooked rice.

​The rise was partially offset by price drops in other key commodities. Deflation in the costs of maize, garden eggs, fresh okro, cocoyam leaves, fried fish, and beans helped prevent a more aggressive spike in the overall index.

​Severe Regional Disparities

​The GSS data exposed a stark economic divide across the country, with inflation impacting regions with vastly different intensities.

Dr. Iddrisu noted that these wide regional imbalances underscore critical structural gaps in the domestic economy.

​“These regional differences highlight the importance of improving transport systems, food distribution, market access, and local supply chains across the country,” Dr. Iddrisu emphasized.

​A Call for Fiscal Discipline

​Reiterating that low and stable inflation is essential for the economic well-being of all citizens, the Government Statistician concluded with an appeal to policymakers.

​Dr. Iddrisu urged the government to maintain strict fiscal discipline and aggressively ramp up investments in national food systems and marketplace infrastructure to stabilize prices in the long term.