Eid al-Adha: 5 Animals Muslims Can Slaughter for Sallah

Eid al-Adha, also known as Ileya in Yoruba and Babbar Sallah in Hausa, is one of Nigeria’s most cherished religious festivals. In 2025, the celebration is expected to commence on Saturday, 7 June, pending the sighting of the crescent moon of Dhul Hijjah.This festival commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering obedience to Allah, symbolised by his willingness to sacrifice his son. The Qur’an 37:101-107 verses are mentioned: “My Lord, grant me [a child] from among the righteous.” So we gave him good tidings of a forbearing boy. And when he reached him [the age of] exertion, he said, ‘O my son, indeed I have seen in a dream that I [must] sacrifice you, so see what you think.’ He said, ‘O my father, do as you are commanded. You will find me, if Allah wills, of the steadfast.’And when they had both submitted and he put him down upon his forehead, We called to him, ‘O Abraham, You have fulfilled the vision.’ Indeed, We thus reward the doers of good. Indeed, this was the clear trial. And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice [i.e., a ram].” In remembrance, Muslims perform the act of Qurbani, the ritual slaughtering of livestock such as rams, goats, cows, or camels. The meat from the sacrifice is then distributed into three parts: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the less fortunate. In Nigeria, Eid al-Adha (Sallah) transcends religious boundaries, fostering unity among diverse communities. Families don new attire, attend congregational prayers at designated grounds, and partake in communal feasts featuring traditional dishes like jollof rice and suya. The celebration also includes cultural events, such as the Durbar festival in northern regions, where emirs and chiefs lead horse parades, showcasing Nigeria’s rich heritage. What Animals Can You Slaughter for Eid al-Adha? Islamic law specifies which animals are halal (permissible) for sacrifice. Here are the most common options in Nigeria. 1. Ram Traditionally linked to the story of Prophet Ibrahim, rams are popular for Eid across Nigeria due to their symbolic value. The ram must be a healthy, adult male (usually at least 6 months old) and free of defects such as blindness, severe lameness, or disease for it to be worthy of sacrifice. Rams are the best animals to slaughter for Ileya because of their spiritual symbolism, size, and tantalising taste. You can get a good and healthy ram at Kara, Gbagada, Ijora, Alabarago, and other livestock markets in the price range of ₦150,000 and ₦600,000. 2. Cows (Cow and OX) Ideal for large families or communal sacrifices, each cow can be shared by up to seven people. The minimum age of the cow is two years, or the child should have at least two permanent teeth. It must be healthy and free from obvious defects.Agrohub.ng offers cows for sale in various sizes, with a price range of ₦400,000 to ₦1,500,000 in Nigeria. 3. Goat (Billy Goat and Nanny Goat) Goats are halal and more affordable for smaller households. It must be at least one year old (or exhibit visible signs of maturity, such as horn growth). It must not have any form of sickness or physical defects. 4. Camel (Camel and She-Camel) Though rare in Nigeria, camels are considered a high-status sacrifice in Islam and can also be shared by up to seven people. The camel must be at least five years old and free of significant health issues or defects. In Islamic tradition, camels are slaughtered using a method called nahr. This involves stabbing the camel in the lower neck area near the chest while it stands with its front left leg tied. This practice, following the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), ensures a swift and humane process. Once the camel collapses and is confirmed dead, the meat is processed. The meat is typically divided into three parts: one-third for the person offering the sacrifice, one-third for relatives and friends, and one-third for the poor and needy. 5. Sheep (Ewe) Similar to goats in size and upkeep, sheep are common in northern states. It must be at least one year old or show signs of maturity, and have no illnesses or significant defects. Sheep (ewe) can be slaughtered, but it is not encouraged as it is less rewarding. For Eid al-Adha, the preference for rams over sheep among many Muslims stems from the tradition of following the example of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Camels and cows, being larger, provide more meat for family, friends, and the less fortunate, which promotes the core values of the celebration and honours prophetic practice. Where to Buy Sallah Animals in Nigeria (2025 Guide) Here are some reliable markets in Nigeria where you can buy Sallah animals: 1. Lagos: Kara Market (Ogun Border) & Epe Livestock Hubs Kara Market, along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, is one of the largest livestock markets in the area. You can find various rams, goats, and cows there. In Epe, the Oke-Oyinbo and T-Junction markets are also popular spots for purchasing Sallah animals. 2. Kaduna: Zango Market, Tudun Wada Zango Market in Tudun Wada is known as the largest animal market in Kaduna. It has a wide selection of livestock at reasonable prices, making it a go-to place for many during the Sallah season. 3. Abuja: Dei-Dei Livestock Market For people in the Federal Capital Territory, the Dei-Dei Livestock Market is a popular destination for purchasing rams, cows, and goats. There are a range of sizes and breeds to cater to diverse preferences and budgets.  4. Jigawa: Maigatari International Livestock Market Located in Jigawa State, Maigatari is one of the largest livestock markets in Africa, attracting traders and buyers from across Nigeria with its extensive selection of animals, including camels, cattle, and goats.