Lagos, Nigeria — April 20, 2026 — The livestock landscape in Nigeria has undergone a dramatic transformation, with the cost of cattle soaring to unprecedented levels, now surpassing the value of certain used cars.
In a stark revelation, the Lagos State Butchers Association reports that the price of a cow has climbed to N2. 7 million (about $1,097) in 2025.
The surge is attributed to a cocktail of factors including heightened insecurity along livestock routes, escalating transport costs, and delays in the implementation of local ranching projects designed to bolster supply. Alhaji Bamidele Kazeem, the association’s Patron, highlights the financial strain faced by meat retailers as they grapple with the soaring prices. “Prices have climbed steadily over the past year, with most cattle now selling between N2.
3 million and N2. 4 million, “Kazeem told the News Agency of Nigeria.
The economic impact is profound, with the cost of a cow now exceeding that of certain vehicles purchased just a few years prior, a situation that underscores the scale of inflation in the livestock market. Amid these challenges, calls for accelerated state-backed livestock initiatives, such as the Eko Ranching project in Gbodu, Epe, are gaining momentum.
The association hopes that local production could alleviate some of the pressure on the supply chain, stabilize prices, and create employment opportunities.
As the industry confronts these uncertainties, the future of meat trading in Nigeria remains a critical concern for both traders and consumers alike.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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By This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africa.businessinsider
Source: Segun Adeyemi
