Nigeria’s meat industry struggles as rising cow prices threaten livelihoods
NIGERIA – The Lagos State Butchers’ Association is raising concerns over the rising cost of cows, warning that the situation is making it difficult for its members to stay in business.
Chairman of the association, Taiwo Rasak, said the sharp increase in prices is pushing butchers to the edge, with many struggling to make a profit.
He explained that the cost of purchasing cows has surged dramatically, with the cheapest now priced at around US$583 (N700,000), compared to US$166–US$291 (N200,000–N350,000) in previous months.
Some cows, he added, are now selling for as much as US$1,666 (N2,000,000), and prices are expected to rise further during Ramadan.
With expenses climbing, many butchers are seeing their profit margins shrink, while some may be forced to close if the situation does not improve.
Markets such as Oja Awolowo in Mushin, once bustling with meat vendors, have become noticeably quieter, with stalls running low on supply.
Rasak acknowledged the government’s past efforts to assist butchers but urged authorities to take quicker action to prevent further economic strain on those in the trade.
He emphasized that government investment in meat production is crucial to keeping butchers and farmers in business amid rising costs.
Support for the livestock sector, he added, would help stabilize supply and ensure that consumers are not further affected by price hikes.
Rasak called for the proper distribution of financial assistance, stressing that palliative loans must be allocated transparently to butchers in need.
He warned that without direct support, many meat sellers would struggle to sustain their businesses in the coming months.
Ongoing Efforts to Revive the Industry
The crisis comes as Nigeria works to strengthen its livestock and meat sector, with new partnerships and investments being explored.
In December, Minister of Livestock Development Idi Mukhtar Maiha met with U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria Richard M. Mills Jr. to discuss ways to improve the industry.
The U.S. government has since announced plans to sponsor 25 Nigerian livestock professionals to attend the Global Food Processing Expo in Atlanta in January 2025.
The event aims to connect Nigerian stakeholders with international experts to exchange knowledge on livestock management and food production.
Meanwhile, Brazil-based meat producer JBS has signed an agreement with the Nigerian government to invest US$2.5 billion in building six meat-processing plants in 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 ensuring the necessary economic and regulatory conditions for the project’s success.
JBS stated that its investment aims to create a more sustainable food production system in Nigeria while contributing to the National Food Security Plan.
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