Ileya 2025: Five states to buy cheap rams

As the highly anticipated Eid-el Kabir celebration approaches, there has been a significant increase in the prices of animals traditionally used for sacrifice during this annual festival, placing a financial strain on many celebrants.

This celebration takes place during the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, a period that holds great significance for Muslims worldwide.

During Eid-el Kabir, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, Muslims commemorate the profound act of faith demonstrated by the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) when he was prepared to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) at God’s command.

In remembrance of this pivotal moment, those who are financially able engage in the sacrificial ritual by slaughtering animals such as sheep, goats, cows, or camels. The meat from these sacrifices is then distributed among family, friends, and those in need, embodying the spirit of charity and community.

However, this year, numerous Muslims are encountering challenges in acquiring rams and other suitable animals for the sacrifices. The steep rise in prices, particularly in various states across Nigeria, has made it difficult for many families to participate fully in the festivities. This situation not only affects their ability to perform the sacrifice but also threatens the communal aspects of the celebration, as the act of giving back to the less fortunate becomes more challenging in the current economic climate.

As the date of Eid-el Kabir draws nearer, concerns continue to mount regarding accessibility and affordability for many celebrants across the nation.

Here are five places you can buy cheap rams in Nigeria.

1 – Zango Market, Tudun Wada
The Zango Market in Tudun Wada is the biggest animal market in Kaduna. The cost of rams here is relatively cheaper.
A seller revealed that one can get a small-sized ram for as low as N50,000.

“Many people don’t want small rams like this, we call them ‘kiwon gida’ meaning ‘rear at home’. I am telling you when the rush starts, this same ram can go for as high as N70,000.

2 – Yan Tumaki Market, Kawo
The Yan Tumaki market Kawo is another market you can get inexpensive rams. The prices start at N65,000 for a small ram. Medium-sized rams are sold for as high as N150,000. There are also sheep and goats you can buy for as low as N60,000.

3 – Surrounding villages and towns
Rams are cheaper in surrounding villages and towns if one can travel to these places. In nearby places like Maraban Jos, Gadan Gayan, Maraban Rido and others, rams, sheep and goats are sold for as low as N45,000. But buyers should note that they will be incurring additional cost to transport the animals to their homes in Kaduna city.

4. – The surrounding villages and towns in Osogbo
Findings show that in some places in Osogbo, Osun State, rams are cheaper and affordable at the price of 70,000 compared to Lagos State, where medium-sized rams are priced at N1.2 million.

5. – Niger State

While it is not the only livestock acceptable, a narration in Sahih Muslim records that the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) sought out horned, white rams to sacrifice during the Eid el-Kabir, as the ram of Prophet Ibrahim had been.

At least, one third of the meat from the animal should go to the poor or vulnerable people.
Like that of ram, prices of cow and camel have also hit the roof top, as findings revealed.

Additional reports from PREMIUM TIMES