Butchers in Lagos have raised concerns over the sharp increase in cattle prices, revealing that a single cow now sells for as much as ₦2.5 million, significantly higher than the ₦1.7 million recorded in 2025.
Drivetvnews gathered that the Patron of the Lagos State Butchers Association, Alhaji Bamidele Kazeem, explained that the surge is driven by insecurity, rising transportation costs, and delays in establishing local ranching systems.
He noted that cows currently sell between ₦2.3 million and ₦2.4 million in most markets, with some reaching ₦2.5 million at peak periods.
According to him, the increase has placed a heavy financial burden on both traders and consumers, with many butchers struggling to sustain their businesses.
Kazeem highlighted the severity of the situation by comparing cattle prices to vehicles, stating that a car he bought in 2020 for ₦2.1 million now costs less than a cow.
He added that cows priced around ₦1 million have become rare, noting that previous price concerns now seem minor compared to current realities.
The association attributed the rising cost partly to insecurity affecting livestock movement across parts of the country, as well as the recent hike in fuel prices, which has significantly increased transportation expenses.
Kazeem explained that most cattle supplied to Lagos come from northern Nigeria, and the cost of moving them has surged due to higher diesel and petrol prices.
He also pointed out that local production has not been able to meet demand, as planned feedlot and ranching initiatives in Lagos are yet to take off.
To address the issue, he urged the government to accelerate the implementation of the Eko Ranching project in Gbodu, Epe, noting that it could boost local supply, reduce dependence on northern sources, and lower meat prices.
He added that the project could also create employment opportunities for youths while stabilising the livestock market.
