Hope among Islamic faithful that ram prices would ease ahead of the 2026 Sallah (Eid al-Fitr) celebration has faded, as traders and buyers report falling sales and rising costs across Nigerian markets.
Eid al-Fitr, also known as Sallah, is a major Islamic festival marked by the sacrificial slaughter of rams, symbolising Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience to Allah. The celebration typically includes morning prayers, sharing meat with family and neighbours, and preparing traditional meals such as pepper soup, fried meat and stew.
However, many households say rising costs have made participation increasingly difficult.
The President of the Ram Sellers Association in Gbagada, Alhaji Abubakar Langa, said: “Speaking on the issue does not solve our problem. No customers are coming to buy rams. The price of rams has increased because of the rise in fuel prices. The cost of transporting rams has increased fourfold, while feed has also risen significantly. We have no choice but to increase prices.”
Another trader, Alhaji Idowu Aminu, linked the surge to wider economic and security pressures. “Everything has gone up astronomically, so the price of rams has also been affected. Insecurity, including attacks on farmers and the theft of livestock, has reduced supply and contributed to higher prices.”
He added that rams now cost between ₦700,000 and ₦800,000, compared to ₦70,000 to ₦100,000 in previous years.
“The situation reflects the condition of society. It is not easy anymore, and it is now rare to see multiple households slaughtering rams on the same street. Some people begin saving immediately after one Sallah for the next year’s celebration.”
A buyer, Babatunde Akorede, also described the pressure from rising prices, noting that opting out of slaughtering a ram is becoming more common.
Alhaji Olohunnishola Lateef said demand has dropped sharply. “There are no buyers because there is no money. Credit sales are not accepted, otherwise traders would have allowed instalments. No ram sells for ₦100,000 anymore. Prices have tripled.”
He added: “I could only afford one ram for myself this year, which I bought for ₦350,000. I advise Muslims to live within their means. Government should also come to the markets and see what people are going through.”
Meanwhile, ram traders briefly blocked the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway while moving livestock in the early hours, causing heavy traffic between Fatgbem and Kara Bridge.
One commuter said: “This year’s prices are overwhelming. I paid for a ram, but the seller later demanded an additional ₦150,000. I had budgeted ₦300,000, but it increased to ₦400,000. I am considering a refund. Last year, I bought a similar ram for ₦250,000.”
Another added: “Some people borrow money to buy rams and end up in debt after Sallah.”
