As Muslims across Nigeria prepare for Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, rising food prices, expensive livestock and high transportation costs are forcing many families to cut back on festivities and embrace low-key celebrations.
Across major markets in Lagos and other cities, prices of essential food items and livestock have surged sharply ahead of Sallah.
A basket of pepper, which previously sold for about ₦15,000, now costs as much as ₦45,000, while tomatoes jumped from around ₦52,000 to ₦80,000 per basket.
Onions and rice have also recorded major increases, with traders blaming inflation, transportation costs and supply challenges.
Livestock sellers say the situation is equally severe, as prices of cows, rams and goats continue to soar.
According to traders, big rams now sell between ₦700,000 and ₦900,000, while cows cost as much as ₦1.5 million in some markets.
Many Nigerians say they can no longer afford the lavish celebrations they once enjoyed.
Some families are opting for turkey instead of ram, while others plan to celebrate with immediate family members only or contribute money together to buy and share a cow.
Several residents also revealed they have cancelled travel plans, abandoned buying new clothes and are focusing on modest celebrations due to the harsh economy.
Despite the hardship, many Muslims insist the true spirit of Eid-el-Kabir remains sacrifice, gratitude, faith and togetherness rather than extravagant spending.
