Lukman Abdulmalik
With Eid-el-Kabir just days away, ram dealers at the Hauran Shanu, Garu, Tishama, and Wudil Livestock Markets in Kano are facing an unexpected dilemma—low patronage despite a significant drop in supply.
A visit by The Star over the weekend revealed that the decline in supply stems from an exportation ban imposed by the military authorities in the Niger Republic.
The ban, which restricts the movement of livestock—including camels, cows, rams, and goats—into Nigeria, has disrupted the usual cross-border trade, even as Nigeria ramps up infrastructure to boost regional commerce.
Export ban sparks shortage
Abdullahi Imam, a livestock trader from Niger Republic, said the ban was prompted by recent floods in Niamey, Maradi, and Tawa, which killed thousands of animals.
Authorities, he added, fear a domestic shortage during the Eid celebration and have mobilized security and traditional officials to enforce the ban.
“Police, immigration, the army, and local chiefs have all been instructed to seize animals found being transported across the border,” Imam explained.
“Many animals have already been confiscated. Despite this, we’re still seeing low patronage compared to last year.”
Prices skyrocket, buyers struggle
The shortage has triggered a sharp spike in prices. Just a week ago, large rams were selling for between N800,000 and N1 million.
Today, prices for the same size start at N1.2 million. Medium-sized rams now go for around N500,000, while small ones start at N150,000.
Buyers across Kano are voicing frustration over the high costs.
Musa Nura, a resident of Dorayi, lamented that prices have become almost unaffordable for the average person.
“An average ram now costs between N130,000 and N170,000. If it’s this bad weeks before Sallah, prices will likely double by then,” he said.
Ali Sani, another resident, said he has resorted to group contributions to afford the sacrifice.
Kano govt announces Eid-el-Kabir holiday for schools
“We’ve been doing this for three years now. It’s still within Islamic practice, and frankly, it’s the only practical option left.”
Civil servant Abdullahi Salihu said the sacrifice is no longer viable for him. “I earn N71,000 monthly.
How can I afford a ram that costs N170,000? I visited Garu Market recently, and that was the cheapest I could find.
This isn’t just about Niger’s ban; it’s a wider economic issue,” he added.
Merchants look to Cameroon, Chad for relief
In response to the ban, Nigerian livestock traders are turning to alternative markets in Cameroon and Chad.
Malam Abdullahi Abdul, a veteran livestock merchant at Wudil Market in Kano, confirmed the shift.
“Niger has always been a major source of rams during Eid.
“The ban will hurt supply, but we’re already sourcing from Cameroon and Chad to fill the gap.
“However, prices may still rise due to foreign exchange fluctuations,” he explained.
Alhaji Bello Guri, another trader, urged calm. “Animals are already coming in from other countries, and more people are rearing livestock locally now.
“While we may not avoid price hikes entirely, a major shortage is unlikely.”
Experts call for long-Term livestock solutions
Experts argue that beyond the current crisis, Nigeria needs a strategic overhaul of its livestock sector.
Dr. Aminu Rimi, a livestock specialist, pointed to rampant animal rustling and outdated farming techniques as long-term drivers of price instability.
He called for full implementation of the National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP), which aims to modernize animal production and promote livestock fattening to boost supply and affordability.
Kano-based analyst Ibraheem Muazzam added that Niger’s actions reflect a larger geopolitical strategy.
“Since the military coup, Niger has made deliberate economic decisions to assert its regional importance.
“The export ban isn’t just about livestock—it’s a statement to Nigeria and the broader ECOWAS region.”
As Eid approaches, the average Nigerian faces a tough choice—dig deeper into strained finances or forgo the annual sacrifice altogether.
While regional alternatives may provide temporary relief, experts agree that only strategic reforms can address the recurring supply crises in Nigeria’s livestock sector.
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