The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, in collaboration with the Cross River State Government, has commenced a national sero-surveillance exercise in the State, targeting 600 livestock samples. The exercise aimed at providing scientific data on animal health also seeks to support national efforts to eradicate Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) by 2030. The exercise covers multiple livestock species and diseases, with samples expected to provide information on organisms and strains circulating in different parts of the State. Speaking during the exercise, the Director of Veterinary Services, Cross River State Ministry of Livestock, Aquaculture and Fisheries Development, Dr. Jude Undiandeye, described the State as strategically important because of its significant livestock population, animal movement routes and international border with Cameroon. According to him, the State serves as an important route for livestock moving into the southern part of the country, while cross-border movement also creates a potential pathway for the introduction of animal diseases. Dr. Undiandeye noted that livestock brought into Cross River State from major producing States, including Taraba, Benue and Adamawa, could introduce diseases, particularly when infected animals purchased from these markets are mixed with existing herds and flocks. The Director disclosed that Calabar Municipal, Calabar South, Ikom and Ogoja were randomly selected for the exercise to provide representation across different parts of the State. On sample preservation, Dr. Undiandeye explained that, "Samples were stored in cold boxes with ice packs, while ice supplies were replenished regularly to maintain the required temperature until it gets to the National Veterinary Research Institute. He further explained that the laboratory analysis would help determine the organisms and disease strains circulating in different environments. The findings, according to him, would provide scientific evidence to guide future vaccination and other appropriate veterinary interventions, while contributing to the development of the candidate's future. The Director linked the exercise to Nigeria’s broader animal health objectives, particularly the national goal of eradicating Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) by 2030. He noted that reliable scientific information from the field would strengthen decision-making and help protect livestock and the livelihoods of farmers. Dr. Undiandeye called for sustained collaboration between government, veterinary professionals and livestock farmers, stating that collective efforts remained essential to achieving the country’s livestock health objectives. The team leader, Dr. Ebi Appolos, said field activities began in Calabar Municipal before moving to Calabar South, Ikom and Ogoja respectively, with samples collected from different animal categories. Dr. Appolos revealed that additional samples were collected where necessary to replace any that might become unusable during handling or transportation. He added that the samples were separated and properly packaged in preparation for transportation to the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI), Vom, Plateau State, for laboratory analysis. Arit Ubi
