Rising food inflation, soaring livestock prices and increasing transportation costs are reshaping preparations for the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration across Nigeria, with many Muslim families scaling down spending and adopting modest plans for the Sallah season.
Across major markets in Lagos, Ibadan and Badagry, traders and residents say the sharp increase in the prices of rams, cows, rice, pepper, tomatoes and cooking oil has placed heavy financial pressure on households already struggling with the country’s high cost of living.
Fresh market surveys showed that the price of a large ram now ranges between N700,000 and N900,000, while cows sell for as high as N1.5 million in some livestock markets ahead of the festival.
Brandspur Consumer News reports that pepper prices recorded one of the steepest increases in the build-up to Sallah, with traders disclosing that a basket of pepper jumped from about N15,000 to nearly N45,000 within weeks, representing a significant surge in food costs nationwide.
Tomatoes, onions, rice and cooking oil also witnessed major price increases, forcing many households to reconsider traditional celebration plans and seek cheaper alternatives for family meals during the festive period.
Several residents said they would no longer purchase rams this year, opting instead for more affordable food items such as frozen turkey, fish and shared livestock contributions among relatives and friends.
Some breadwinners also revealed that plans for new clothes, interstate travel and elaborate gatherings have been suspended due to rising fuel prices and shrinking household income.
Livestock dealers attributed the increase in animal prices to higher transportation costs, supply chain pressures and increased expenses linked to sourcing cattle and rams from northern Nigeria to southern markets.
Despite the economic strain, many Muslim families said they remain committed to celebrating Eid-el-Kabir within their financial capacity while focusing on the spiritual importance of sacrifice, gratitude and family unity.
Residents who spoke on the situation urged Nigerians to embrace moderation during the festivities, noting that the difficult economic environment has made prudent spending and financial discipline increasingly necessary for many households.
Economic analysts say persistent inflationary pressure on food items and transportation continues to weaken consumer purchasing power, with festive periods now becoming more financially demanding for average Nigerians across the country.
