Price Of Eggs Increase Nationwide.

 

Nigeria is experiencing a steep rise in egg prices, with some stores selling a crate for up to ₦8,500, sparking fears of a possible shortage. 

The surge comes as farmers face difficulties in obtaining day-old chicks, which are crucial for maintaining poultry production.

At farm level, a crate now costs around ₦5,500, up from ₦5,000 in January 2026.

Retail outlets charge between ₦6,000 and ₦6,500, while larger stores and supermarkets sell at higher rates, sometimes reaching ₦8,500, due to added transport and operational costs.

Industry insiders say the shortage of chicks is the main reason for rising prices. Hatcheries are fully booked months ahead, making it hard for poultry farmers to restock when their laying hens are retired.

 Farmers can wait up to six months to secure new chicks, which need time to grow before laying eggs.

The price of chicks has also climbed, doubling from about ₦1,800 last year to roughly ₦3,300 now. 

Restrictions on importing breeding birds have further reduced the local supply of chicks, prompting calls for more import licenses or direct chick importation.

Rising fuel costs are adding to the overall increase, making it harder for Nigerians to afford eggs, a common source of protein.

 Consumers report steady price hikes since the beginning of the year, with no clear end in sight.

Poultry farmers are also watching a proposed $900 million Federal Government partnership with China, aimed at producing up to six million eggs daily. 

While the plan could expand output, farmers warn that access to chicks and other key inputs must improve first for it to succeed.

Egg buyers continue to feel the impact, as prices rise across markets and stores, leaving many to rethink their household budgets.