Ram traders lament low demand as more buyers opt for cows ahead of 2025 Eid Kabir

As the 2025 Eid Kabir celebration approaches, some ram traders in Lagos State have expressed concern over the declining demand for rams, attributing it to a growing preference for cows among Muslim faithful.

In interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), several traders noted that buyers now find cows more economical, especially when the cost is split among families or friends performing the religious sacrifice.

Mr. Ibrahim Hassan, a ram trader at Lawanson Market, observed a clear shift in buyer behavior.
“The patronage this year is not bad, but I have noticed that people are buying more cows than rams. I believe the reason behind this shift is that cows are more economical and offer better value for money,” he said.

According to him, while a single ram can cost over ₦500,000, five families can jointly purchase a cow for as low as ₦800,000 and share the meat, fulfilling the sacrificial requirements while spending less per household.

Another trader, Mr. Shakiru Gbadamosi, also at Lawanson, shared a similar experience:
“People are weighing their options this Sallah, and they have been buying more cows. Although many still prefer rams because of the religious symbolism, the economic pressure is shifting preferences.”

Gbadamosi added that ram prices this year range between ₦550,000 and ₦700,000 for larger breeds, while younger rams, which are still acceptable for sacrifice, go for ₦130,000 to ₦250,000.

A buyer, Mr. Folajimi Aderibigbe, confirmed the trend, explaining that his family of eight partnered with a relative to purchase a cow instead of multiple rams.
“We split the cost of a cow at ₦950,000. Everyone still performs the sacrifice and we save money. Economic realities have changed things,” he said.

Cooking oil traders report surge in demand as Sallah approaches

In a related development, cooking oil traders in the Lawanson and Idi-Araba markets have noted a spike in demand for vegetable oil, particularly groundnut oil, ahead of the Sallah celebration.

Mrs. Linda Nwachukwu, a trader at Lawanson Market, said:
“Demand for cooking oil has increased significantly. A lot of people are stocking up ahead of the celebration. Though prices have risen, groundnut oil is now cheaper than it was earlier this year.”

She stated that a 25-litre container of groundnut oil, which sold for ₦110,000 until April 2025, now goes for ₦78,000. Smaller quantities cost ₦35,000 for 10 litres and ₦18,500 for five litres.

Another trader, Mrs. Imoleayo Fakunle, explained how she helps low-income customers manage:
“Not everyone can afford large jerrycans or branded oils, so I buy in bulk and sell in measured portions. It helps customers save money while still getting the essentials.”

Consumers, too, are adapting. Mrs. Taraoluwa Alausa, a shopper at Idi-Araba Market, said she prioritizes healthier oils but makes exceptions during festive periods.
“I’ve learned to prioritise. I buy smaller quantities for frying and use better quality oil for cooking. For Sallah, I’ll use the measured portions so I can fry more and spend less.”

Despite inflationary pressures, the consensus among traders and consumers is that essentials like meat and cooking oil remain central to the Eid celebration, even if spending habits have shifted.