The number of cows slaughtered daily in Lagos State has dropped from 5,000 to 3,000, according to Alhaji Bamidele Kazeem, patron of the Lagos State Butchers Association.
The decline, which began in 2015 due to Boko Haram insurgency, has worsened due to inflation, exchange rate crises, and rising cow prices.
Kazeem noted that a cow now costs between ₦1.6 million and ₦1.7 million, compared to previous prices of ₦400,000 to ₦500,000. Factors such as banditry, farmer-herder conflicts, and climate-related challenges have reduced cattle production and supply.
He urged collaboration between the government, butchers, and farmers to sustain the industry. Additionally, veterinary checks by the Lagos State Health Ministry are conducted to ensure cattle health and prevent infections.
