The Lagos State Butchers Association has reported a decline in the daily number of cows being slaughtered in Lagos, dropping from 5,000 to 3,000. This decrease, as disclosed by the association’s patron, Alhaji Bamidele Kazeem, is attributed to various factors such as economic challenges, terror-related activities, and environmental issues. The drop in cattle slaughter began in 2015 due to the Boko Haram insurgency and has worsened with the current exchange rate crisis and inflation.
Kazeem expressed concerns that the ongoing rise in market prices could further reduce the number of slaughtered cows. The increasing cost of purchasing cows, now ranging from ₦1.6 million to ₦1.7 million, compared to ₦400,000 to ₦500,000 in the past, has been a significant challenge. Factors such as economic downturn, inflation, banditry, and farmer-herder conflicts have also contributed to the decrease in beef demand and cattle production, affecting supply in Lagos.
The patron emphasized the need for collaboration between the state government, butchers, and farmers to address these challenges and ensure the sustainability of the industry. Kazeem also mentioned the impact of climate and environmental factors on cattle rearing, highlighting the importance of health checks by veterinary doctors to maintain the cows’ well-being and prevent infections.