Egg prices have increased across Nigeria, with a crate now selling for as high as N8,500 in some retail outlets, driven by supply shortages and higher production costs.
Farm gate prices have risen to about N5,500 per crate, up from N5,000 in January 2026. Retail prices now range between N6,000 and N6,500, while supermarkets sell as high as N8,500, reflecting rising distribution and operating costs.
Industry stakeholders say the spike has been caused by a shortage of day-old chicks (DOCs), a key input in egg production. Hatcheries have reportedly been fully booked months in advance, making it difficult for farmers to restock.
Chairman of the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN), Lagos chapter, Mojeed Iyiola, said farmers have had to wait up to six months for DOCs, delaying production as chicks take time to mature and begin laying eggs.
The cost of DOCs has nearly doubled from N1,800 last year to about N3,300, further straining farmers and limiting expansion.
Stakeholders have also blamed regulatory constraints, including limited licences for importing parent stock, and have urged the Federal Government to ease restrictions to stabilise supply.
Meanwhile, rising transport costs linked to fuel prices have worsened the situation, pushing prices even higher.
Consumers have increasingly felt the impact, with many households reporting reduced access to eggs, a traditionally affordable source of protein, and uncertainty over when prices will ease.
