Sani Dutsinma
As Muslims prepare for the upcoming Eid-el-Kabir celebration, the prices of rams have risen sharply across Kebbi State, forcing many prospective buyers to delay purchases despite the availability of livestock in major markets.
A survey conducted by Radio Nigeria in livestock markets across the state revealed that although markets are well stocked with rams, patronage remains low due to the high prices.
Eid-ul-Kabir: Rising Livestock Prices, Low Patronage Hit Kano Markets
At Ambursa and Kalgo markets, small-sized rams are being sold for between N100,000 and N200,000, while medium-sized rams cost between N300,000 and N500,000. Bigger rams are priced from N600,000 to as high as N1 million, depending on the breed and size.
Residents who spoke with Radio Nigeria described the prices as unaffordable compared to previous years, even though the animals are readily available in the markets.
One of the buyers, Ibrahim Sulaimam, who was seen negotiating the price of a ram at Ambursa market, expressed concern over the rising cost of livestock. He said he was hopeful prices would reduce as the Sallah celebration draws closer.
Another customer at Kalgo market, Umar Lawal Aliero, said he had postponed buying a ram because of the current economic challenges facing many families.
According to him, several financial responsibilities ahead of the celebration have made it difficult for many civil servants and low-income earners to afford rams at the prevailing prices.
A livestock dealer at Ambursa market, Alhaji Sale Unable, attributed the hike in prices to the rising cost of transportation, animal feeding, and insecurity affecting livestock supply routes across northern Nigeria and neighboring countries.
He explained that temporary ram markets have also emerged in different parts of Birnin Kebbi as traders intensify efforts to attract buyers ahead of the festival.
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According to him, some traders now move around residential areas with rams in search of customers, while others display the animals in front of homes, shops, and along major roads across the state capital.
Radio Nigeria reports that ram sellers have increasingly occupied strategic locations across the metropolis as they seek to boost sales ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir festivities.