Nigerians are once again feeling the strain of the economic crunch as egg prices surge sharply, pushing a basic source of protein beyond the reach of many households.
A crate of eggs, previously sold between N6,000 and N6,500, now goes for as high as N8,500 in retail markets, with fears it could hit N10,000 in the coming weeks due to worsening scarcity.
Market checks reveal that farm gate prices have climbed to about N5,500 per crate, while supermarkets and grocery stores sell at much higher rates to cover transportation and operating costs.
Individual eggs, which sold for N200–N250 just weeks ago, are now priced between N300 and N350, marking an increase of over 30 per cent.
Industry players attribute the spike mainly to a severe shortage of day-old chicks (DOC), a critical input in poultry production.
Poultry farmers say hatcheries are fully booked for months, with waiting periods stretching up to five or six months, followed by another four to five months before the birds begin laying eggs, tightening supply nationwide.
The crisis is compounded by rising production costs, especially the soaring price of maize used for feed, alongside high fuel costs impacting transportation.
Many farmers have been forced out of business, with over 30 per cent of poultry farms reportedly shutting down, while those still operating struggle with losses and low patronage.
Stakeholders warn that without urgent government intervention, the situation could worsen, threatening food security and worsening protein deficiency among Nigerians.
Some farmers have already exited egg production entirely, citing unsustainable conditions, while calls grow louder for emergency support to revive the struggling poultry sector.