THE IMPACT OF BRITISH COLONIAL ECONOMIC POLICIES ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF BEEF MARKET IN LAGOS, 1912-1960

Abstract

The world beef market is a multibillion-dollar industry that involves production, processing, distribution, and consumption of beef products. Beef is one of the most widely consumed meats globally. The key factors driving the global beef market are demand and supply occasioned by infrastructural development, population growth, improved income, affordability and availability of beef products. However, African beef market is driven by increasing demand for protein-rich foods, particularly in urban areas. Nigeria has undergone significant transformations over the past century in the beef industry. The British colonial policies played important roles in shaping the beef market development in Lagos. This study explores how colonial economic policies influenced the development of the Lagos beef industry. The objectives of this study were to: (i) assess the origin and evolution of beef market in Lagos; (ii) investigate the nature of beef market in Lagos prior to colonial rule; and (iii) examine the impact of British colonial policies on the development of beef market in Lagos. The study adopts historical research methodology, leveraging on primary and secondary sources of data collection. The primary sources included archival materials, oral interviews and government records while secondary sources included published books and journals papers. The study highlights the pre-colonial, colonial and post-colonial economic interactions between the Hausa/Fulani cattle traders and the people of Lagos and the impact of British colonial policies in shaping the Lagos beef industry. The findings reveal adaptions and innovations in beef production, processes, marketing and distribution, as well as challenges relating to hygiene and sanitation, and regulatory frameworks.