Ram sellers at the Shuwarin Livestock Market in Kiyawa Local Government Area of Jigawa State have reported low patronage in the days leading up to the Eid-el-Kabir celebration, despite a sharp rise in prices and limited supply of animals.

Findings by The Guardian during the market day on Monday revealed that traders are attributing the situation to the continued closure of the Niger Republic border, which has disrupted livestock imports. The border restrictions, enforced by the military authorities in Niger, have led to reduced inflow of animals into Nigeria, affecting availability and driving up prices.

Prices of livestock at the market ranged from N180,000 to N980,000 for rams, with the lowest-priced ram selling at N160,000. Other animals, including camels and sheep, were priced from N780,000 to over one million naira for a single camel.

This is occurring despite the Federal Government’s efforts to ease trade between Nigeria and its northern neighbour. Among such initiatives is the Kano–Jigawa–Katsina–Maradi railway project, recently reemphasised by President Bola Tinubu during a visit to Katsina. The rail line, aimed at improving trade routes, is scheduled for completion by 2026.

The high cost and scarcity of rams have raised concerns among many households, with some considering skipping the traditional Eid sacrifice this year.

Mal. Sale Shuwarin, a livestock trader at the Shuwarin market, pointed to multiple factors driving up prices. “The devaluation of our Naira is one of the main reasons for the escalating prices,” he said.

Market trends show some recent price adjustments. A large ram that sold for N1.7 million a week earlier was going for N1.2 million on Sunday, while medium-sized rams that previously cost N700,000 were being sold for less. The smallest rams were priced from N100,000 upwards.

Despite the slight drop in prices, dealers remain worried about the low turnout of buyers and the broader implications for the festive season.