The number of cows slaughtered daily in Lagos State has declined from 5,000 to 3,000, according to the Lagos State Butchers Association.
The association’s patron, Bamidele Kazeem, disclosed this in an interview on Thursday in Lagos, attributing the decline to Nigeria’s prevailing socio-economic challenges.
Kazeem noted that the reduction in slaughtered cattle began in 2015 when Boko Haram insurgency intensified, disrupting cattle supply chains.
He highlighted multiple factors contributing to the decline, including economic difficulties, rising exchange rates, and security concerns.
“This reduction is due to numerous factors such as economic challenges, insecurity, and environmental concerns,” he said.
Kazeem warned that the number of slaughtered cows could further decline as market prices continue to rise.
“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 lamented.
He linked the drop in beef demand to inflation and the increasing cost of living.
“Banditry and farmer-herder conflicts have also reduced cattle production, affecting supply and leading to fewer cows being slaughtered in Lagos,” he added.
The decline in cattle slaughter, he warned, could negatively impact meat supply in Lagos. He called on the state government, butchers, and farmers to collaborate in finding solutions.
“All hands must be on deck to tackle these challenges and ensure a more sustainable industry,” Kazeem urged.
He also emphasized the role of climate and environmental factors in cattle production.
“When temperatures rise, heat stress can slow cattle growth, reduce milk production, and lower fertility rates,” he explained.
Kazeem assured the public that veterinary doctors from the Lagos State Ministry of Health regularly inspect cattle to maintain hygiene and prevent infections.
