As preparations intensify for the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, many Nigerian families are scaling back their usual Sallah spending due to soaring prices of food items, livestock and transportation.
Across Lagos, Ibadan and Badagry, residents and traders say the worsening economic situation has forced households to abandon luxury celebrations and embrace modest festivities instead.
At several markets visited in Lagos, traders described sharp increases in the prices of staple ingredients commonly used during the festive period. The development has left many buyers struggling to afford basic cooking needs just days before the Muslim celebration.
A tomato and pepper seller at Iyana Oba Market, identified simply as Ashiru, said the cost of pepper, tomatoes and onions has risen significantly within a short period.
According to him, a basket of tomatoes now sells for about N80,000 compared to N52,000 previously, while a basket of pepper jumped from N15,000 to N45,000. He added that a bag of onions currently costs around N90,000, up from N56,000.
Other foodstuff traders also confirmed the spike in prices. A trader, Mrs Ruth Lawal, explained that popular rice brands that previously sold for about N52,000 now cost as much as N65,000 per bag. She added that 25 litres of groundnut oil, which used to sell for N50,800, has risen to N61,200.
Livestock dealers equally lamented the rising costs of cows, rams and goats ahead of the festival. A cow meat seller, Mr Abdulraheem, disclosed that large cows now sell between N1.2 million and N1.5 million, compared to N800,000 to N1 million in previous months. He further stated that big rams currently cost between N700,000 and N900,000, while medium-sized ones go for N400,000 to N600,000.
Another livestock trader, Afeez Awal, who operates at Mami Market in Ibereko along Badagry Expressway, said both traders and buyers are under pressure due to the increase. He noted that goats previously sold for N150,000 are now priced between N200,000 and N300,000, while bigger goats now cost up to N700,000.
For many households, the economic hardship has forced difficult decisions. A farmer, Temitope Abel, said she had abandoned plans to buy a ram this year and would instead settle for a carton of turkey priced around N48,000. She also lamented the increasing prices of fish, including croaker and kpanla.
Despite the hardship, many residents said they are determined to celebrate within their means. Mrs Romoke Olisa explained that her family plans to partner with friends and relatives to jointly purchase a cow and share the meat to reduce expenses. She noted that the focus should remain on gratitude and family togetherness rather than extravagant celebrations.
Similarly, Taiwo Jimoh said his family would celebrate with whatever resources were available. According to him, he has already informed his children that there would be no new clothes this year due to financial constraints. He urged Nigerians to celebrate moderately and avoid unnecessary pressure.
Some residents also revealed that rising fuel prices and transportation costs have disrupted travel plans. Mr Awojoodu Kazeem said he may no longer travel from Ibadan to Ile-Ife for the celebration because of the high cost of fuelling his vehicle and other associated expenses.
A brand and communications strategist, Abiodun Yakubu, noted that Islam encourages believers to celebrate according to their financial capacity. He stressed that the spiritual essence of Eid-el-Kabir should take priority over luxury spending.
Also speaking, public health practitioner Taoheedah Abdulkareem said careful budgeting, reducing unnecessary spending and sticking to trusted sellers would help her family navigate the season without financial strain.
Although many Nigerians admit that this year’s Sallah celebration may be quieter than previous years, several residents insist that the true spirit of the festival remains rooted in sacrifice, compassion, faith and sharing with loved ones regardless of economic circumstances.
