Reported by: Agande Richard Aondofa | Edited by: Henry Owen
The Federal Government of Nigeria has intensified efforts to strengthen disease management in the livestock sector, aiming to safeguard farmers’ investments, enhance food security, and boost the country’s potential in regional and international meat markets.
On Saturday, November 8, 2025, the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, convened a high-level meeting with national and state coordinators, veterinary directors, technical experts, farmers’ associations, and development partners to chart a course for proactive surveillance and rapid response to disease outbreaks. Addressing participants, Minister Maiha emphasized that the economic prospects of Nigeria’s red meat industry depend heavily on the ability to certify livestock for export, particularly to Gulf countries where demand reaches hundreds of tons. “The red meat industry is committed to working with us to begin exporting meat to the Gulf. But this depends entirely on how many animals we can certify. One Gulf country alone requires almost 200 tons of meat,” he stated.
Maiha also underscored the urgency of strengthening Nigeria’s animal health systems in light of increased livestock movement across borders from countries such as Sudan, Chad, Mali, and Burkina Faso. He urged stakeholders to develop practical solutions aligned with international frameworks and to embed these strategies into the upcoming 2026 budget cycle, stressing that protecting farmers’ livelihoods must remain a top priority.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi, reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance stance toward uncontrolled disease outbreaks, emphasizing that collaboration between federal, state, and local authorities is critical. “Engaging state Governors to prioritise disease control is critical. Our farmers cannot be left vulnerable,” she said. Dr. Akujobi further highlighted the need for actionable short-term plans across livestock clusters and value chains, alongside the wider dissemination of the Animal Disease Control Act to ensure all stakeholders are prepared to respond effectively to outbreaks.
During the meeting, updates were shared on recent outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, Foot-and-Mouth Disease, African Swine Fever, and Rabies, showcasing interventions such as emergency vaccinations, surveillance, and coordinated field responses led by the National Veterinary Research Institute and regional partners. Farmers provided firsthand accounts of challenges, including the need for access to vaccines, rebuilding herds after disease losses, and fair compensation, particularly in communities recovering from African Swine Fever.
The Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, Dr. Samuel Anzaku, highlighted the importance of contingency planning, adequate vaccine stockpiles, and enhanced diagnostic capabilities, noting that timely interventions in outbreak hotspots have limited disease spread and saved livestock. The discussions concluded with a shared commitment to expand surveillance, improve vaccination coverage, upgrade laboratory capacities, and strengthen public awareness campaigns, demonstrating the government’s resolve to protect Nigeria’s livestock economy and support the country’s farmers.
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