Eid-El-Kabir: Ram prices surge in Kaduna as buyers struggle ahead of Sallah

As Muslims across Nigeria prepare for Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, the cost of rams has surged sharply in Kaduna State, leaving many residents unable to make purchases despite the availability of livestock in major markets.

A market survey in Kaduna metropolis by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) showed that while rams were in steady supply at Zango, Rigasa, and Bashama Road markets, patronage has dropped significantly due to rising prices.

Small-sized rams are currently selling between N150,000 and N250,000, while medium and large-sized ones go for between N300,000 and as high as N1 million, depending on breed, size, and quality.

Several residents who spoke expressed frustration over the escalating prices, noting that the cost is far beyond what many families can afford this year. A buyer, Abdulrahman Usman, said he was still negotiating at Zango market, hoping prices might ease closer to Sallah, while another resident, Ibrahim Lawal, a civil servant, said he had postponed buying due to financial constraints.

Livestock dealers attributed the increase to high transportation costs, feeding expenses, and insecurity along livestock supply routes. According to them, maintaining the animals has become more expensive, directly affecting market prices.

Traders also noted emerging strategies to attract buyers, including temporary ram markets and mobile sales across residential areas, as they attempt to move stock ahead of the festive period.

One trader, Bilyaminu Musa, who said he brings rams from Niger, disclosed that he had already sold 14 out of 40 rams brought into Kaduna, with prices ranging from N350,000 for smaller sizes to about N700,000 for larger ones.

Despite the availability of livestock, many households say economic pressure may force a scaled-down celebration this year, as the cost of living continues to weigh heavily on festive spending.