Ram prices in major livestock markets in Abuja have increased sharply ahead of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, with some large breeds now selling for as much as N1.5 million.
A market survey showed that prices have gone up because of inflation, high transport costs, insecurity, expensive animal feed, and rising business expenses.
Traders said the cost of bringing animals from northern states such as Kano and Sokoto has increased significantly.
One trader at Orange Market, Musa Ibrahim, said many buyers now visit only to check prices because they cannot afford the animals.
Another trader, Lawal Adamu, explained that higher fuel costs and security problems on roads are making transportation more expensive.
According to roadside seller Abdullahi in Nyanya, rams that sold for about N700,000 last year now cost close to N1 million.
Current prices at some markets include:
Medium-sized rams: N350,000 to N400,000
Small rams: N230,000 to N250,000
Large breeds: N550,000 to N1.5 million
At Zuba Market, the cheapest ram available was sold for around N275,000 after bargaining.
Goat prices have also increased:
Fully grown male goats: about N120,000
Smaller goats: N70,000 to N90,000
Many traders said customer turnout has reduced because buyers are waiting to see if prices will drop closer to the celebration.
Experts linked the increase to several economic problems.
Economist Dr. Almarouf Ojelabi said inflation, transport costs, insecurity and exchange rate changes are pushing up livestock prices.
Financial analyst Yusuf Ahmed added that expensive diesel and insecurity in farming and grazing areas are reducing supply and increasing costs.
Agricultural economist Dr. Aisha Mahmoud said many herders now spend more on feed because grazing conditions have become more difficult.
Some buyers said the rising prices may stop many Muslim families from carrying out the traditional Eid sacrifice this year.
Civil servant Ibrahim Sani said some families may now combine money to buy one ram together.
Nigeria’s headline inflation rate rose to 15.69% in April 2026, up from 15.38% in March, according to official data.
Eid-el-Kabir celebrations in Nigeria are expected to take place on May 27 and 28, 2026.
