The continuous rise in the egg price in Nigeria is a result of the high cost of petrol. Ever seen the fuel subsidy has been removed the cost of feeds from the millers has also increased. We all know that the price of petrol determines the price of everything in this country.
Before, most Nigerians always used eggs as a source of protein, especially since other sources like meat, fish, milk, and others are very expensive.
But now, the story has changed. Many Nigerians have stopped eating eggs because they can no longer afford it because of its high cost. This has led to a serious decline in protein intake.
According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBC) Demographic Statistics in 2022 the report shows that 88% of Nigerian children do not have access to eggs. That is 8 out of 10 Nigerian children’s food had no eggs. How do we then survive, I hope the Government will find something to do about this.
Besides their culinary uses, eggs are also useful in some industries. For example, egg whites are used in the production of vaccines and cosmetics. Also, its yolks are used in the production of paints and adhesives. Similarly, the proteins in eggs are useful in the production of various pharmaceuticals.
Despite the hike in egg prices, we still need it because of its nutritional value. However, if you cannot afford one egg per day you can eat it twice a week. Accordingly, in this blog post, I will tell you the egg prices in Nigeria. Likewise, I will tell you some of the nutritional values embedded in eggs. And also why it is costly now.
Egg Price in Nigeria
According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), egg prices in Nigeria experienced a significant increase. The report for September 2024 of some selected food prices shows that 12 pieces of Agric eggs (medium size) increased by 137.43%. That is, there was a drastic increase from ₦1,047.47 in September of last year (2023) to ₦2,487.04 in September 2024.
Accordingly, a crate of eggs was ₦6,250 in September 2024. But as of the time of writing this article, 28th of October 2024, 12 pieces of Agric eggs (medium size) are now ₦3000. Hence, a crate of eggs (30 pieces) is ₦7500.
How much is 1 Egg in Nigeria Today?
The price of an egg in Nigeria depends on the size of the eggs and your location. However, on average the price of one medium-sized egg is ₦200.
Why Should I Eat Egg?
You need to include eggs in your diet because it is a highly nutritious food that forms part of a good mixed diet and contains good cholesterol. Yet, contains 12% shell and also a mix of protein, minerals, and vitamins.
Likewise, eggs are rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants. This makes it indispensable for the healthy growth and development of children, adolescents, and adults at large. Similarly, the high levels of antioxidants in the egg help prevent age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness.
Causes of High Egg Prices in Nigeria
The increase in egg prices in Nigeria can be majorly attributed to the high cost of poultry feed. Poultry feed constitutes about 70% of the cost of running a poultry farm in Nigeria. Therefore, when the price of ingredients like maize, soya beans, and other essential nutrients needed in the production of poultry feeds is high, it directly affects egg prices.
Aside from the high cost of poultry feeds, the high cost of poultry equipment and maintenance also contributes to the increase in egg prices in Nigeria. The cost of buying and maintaining equipment such as incubators, brooders, cages, and others has greatly increased due to the high exchange rate. Similarly, the cost of maintaining the health of the birds through vaccination and other veterinary services has also led to an increase in the overall egg price in Nigeria.
Lastly, the high cost of fuel has immensely affected egg prices in Nigeria. Because it has led to an increase in operational costs.
Conclusion
It is so sad that inflation has pushed an egg-a-day diet away from many Nigerians’ reach. As the price is so unbearable.
However, it is important to note that egg prices in Nigeria may vary based on your location, size of the egg, and season of purchase, amongst other things.
