Lagos butchers struggle as soaring cow prices threaten livelihoods

NIGERIA – The Lagos State Butchers’ Association has raised concerns over the escalating cost of cows, warning that the crisis is making it increasingly difficult for its members to sustain their businesses. 

Many butchers are now facing shrinking profit margins, while some may be forced to shut down operations if the situation does not improve.

Chairman of the association, Taiwo Rasak, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, described the rising cost of cattle as a major challenge. 

He explained that the cheapest cow in the market is currently priced at around US$583 (N700,000), a sharp increase from the previous range of US$166 to US$291 (N200,000–N350,000). 

Larger cows are now selling for as much as US$1,666 (N2,000,000), and prices are expected to climb further during the Ramadan season.

Meat supply dwindles as market activity declines

The surge in cattle prices has led to a slowdown in business at key meat markets across Lagos. The once-bustling Oja Awolowo Market in Mushin has seen a sharp decline in activity, with meat vendors struggling to secure enough supply to meet demand. 

Many butchers have had to scale back operations as they navigate rising costs.

Rasak noted that while government interventions have been made in the past, the sector requires a more urgent response to address the ongoing crisis. He emphasized that funding for meat production is crucial to sustaining butchers and livestock farmers amid rising operational expenses.

“The interventions can help bridge the gap between supply and demand, ultimately benefiting consumers,” Rasak stated. “By supporting meat production, the government can contribute to food security, economic growth, and the well-being of its citizens.”

Calls for government intervention and financial support

The association has urged the Federal Government to step in and provide financial relief to struggling butchers. 

Rasak stressed that the disbursement of palliative loans must be transparent and directed toward those most in need. According to him, ensuring that funds reach the intended beneficiaries will help stabilize the sector and prevent mass closures of meat businesses.

“It is crucial that the government establishes a transparent and equitable system for distributing palliative loans, guaranteeing that these funds are directed towards meat sellers who are struggling to cope with the rising costs and need assistance to stay afloat,” he added.

Nigeria’s efforts to revamp the livestock sector

The crisis comes at a time when Nigeria is working to strengthen its livestock and meat industry through new partnerships and investments. 

Brazil-based meat producer JBS has signed an agreement with the Nigerian government to invest US$2.5 billion in establishing six meat-processing plants across the country. 

As part of the deal, JBS will conduct feasibility studies and work on improving the local supply chain over the next five years. In return, the Nigerian government has committed to creating the necessary economic and regulatory conditions for the project’s success.

JBS has stated that the investment seeks to develop a more sustainable food production system in Nigeria while contributing to the National Food Security Plan.