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Butchers lament low meat sales with cattle price soaring to N1.7m per head

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Butchers lament low meat sales as cattle price soars to increase price of meat

By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor

Cattle price has risen to N1.7 million per head, slashing the number of cows slaughtered daily in Lagos from 5,000 to 3,000, according to the Lagos State Butchers Association (LSBA).

LSBA patron Bamidele Kazeem lamented that the decline is caused by the economic hardship all over the country.

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He told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the drop in cattle slaughter began in 2015 due to Boko Haram insurgency and got worse with the current foreign exchange (forex) rate crisis and high inflation.

“This reduction is due to numerous factors, including economic challenges, terror-related activities, and environmental concerns,” he explained.

Kazeem expressed concern that the number of slaughtered cows could decline even further due to rising prices in the market.

“Previously, we could purchase a cow for between ₦400,000 and ₦500,000, depending on the breed, size, and location, but we now pay between ₦1.6 million and ₦1.7 million for a cow.”

He attributed the drop in beef demand to economic downturn, inflation, and rising cost of living.

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“Banditry and farmer-herder conflicts have also contributed to reduce cattle production, affecting supply and the number of cows slaughtered in Lagos,” he added.

He warned that the decline could negatively impact meat supply in Lagos and urged the state government, butchers, and farmers to work together to address the issue.

“All hands must be on deck to tackle these challenges and create a more sustainable industry.”

Kazeem also highlighted the impact of climate and environmental factors on cattle rearing.

“When temperatures rise, it can cause heat stress, reducing cattle growth rates, milk production, and fertility.

“Veterinary doctors from the Lagos State Health Ministry conduct checks to ensure cows’ health and prevent infections.”

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