2026 Sallah: Ram Sales Open Window For Quick Returns

As preparations for the 2026 Eid al-Adha gather momentum, ram trading is emerging as a profitable short-term investment opportunity, driven by strong seasonal demand and rising prices.

Ram prices have surged across major livestock markets, driven by inflationary pressures and constrained supply.

Prices for rams vary by size and location, with small breeds selling between N250,000 and N450,000, and larger ones ranging from N450,000 to N900,000.

Despite the high cost of livestock and other food items, traders say the market still offers room for profit, especially for investors who enter early.

They note that prices typically surge in the final days leading up to the festival as last-minute buyers scramble to secure animals for the annual sacrifice.

Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. The celebration, observed by Muslims worldwide, involves the ritual slaughter of animals such as rams, goats, cattle, or camels.

Speaking with LEADERSHIP Weekend , a livestock trader, Alhaji Saliu Kadiri, said early investment remains critical to maximizing returns.

“If I have the money, this is the best time to invest because prices are still relatively stable and there are fewer sellers in the market. As the festival gets closer, demand will rise and so will prices,” Kadiri a resident of Magboro,Ogun State, stated.

Similarly, a resident of Ojudu Berger in Lagos, Sule Abdulaziz, urged prospective investors to take advantage of the current window, noting that the economic downturn may discourage many traders, thereby reducing competition.

“Some people may avoid the business because of the high cost of things, but that creates opportunity for those willing to invest. Buying now and selling when demand peaks can yield good profit,” he said.

However, analysts caution that while the seasonal trade can be lucrative, investors must consider logistics such as feeding, transportation, and market access to avoid potential losses.

With only a few days to the celebration, stakeholders say the opportunity for early entry is narrowing, as latecomers may be forced to buy at inflated prices, reducing their profit margins.

As the countdown to Eid al-Adha continues, the ram market is expected to remain vibrant, offering investors a narrow but promising window for quick returns.