Cow prices in Lagos have surged to N2.5 million, up from N1.7 million in 2025, according to the Lagos State Butchers Association. The association's Patron, Alhaji Bamidele Kazeem, disclosed the sharp increase in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Lagos. He said cows now sell between N2.3 million and N2.4 million, with one recently priced at N2.5 million. Kazeem attributed the rise to insecurity disrupting cattle movement, increased fuel prices, and soaring transportation costs. Diesel and petrol price hikes have significantly raised logistics expenses, particularly for cattle brought from northern Nigeria to Lagos markets. He noted that cows once sold for N1 million are now rare, and the current market conditions have made it difficult for butchers to sustain their businesses. "The car I bought in 2020 for N2.1 million is now cheaper than the price of a cow," Kazeem said. He pointed out that delayed government ranching initiatives, including the Eko Ranching project in Gbodu, Epe, have left local producers unable to meet demand. As a result, Lagos remains heavily reliant on northern suppliers. Kazeem urged authorities to fast-track the implementation of the Eko Ranching project to boost local cattle production, cut transport costs, and stabilise meat prices. He said the project could create jobs for young people and help reduce the cost of meat in the state.
A cow now costs more than a car bought just four years ago, exposing the depth of strain on Lagos' meat supply chain. The state's continued dependence on northern cattle amid stalled local ranching plans shows a policy gap with real economic consequences. When basic food commodities outpace durable goods in price, the burden falls hardest on low-income consumers. Without urgent movement on the Eko Ranching project, this cost pressure shows no sign of easing.
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