The Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Maiha, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening veterinary services across Nigeria, with a focus on the sub-national level.
Speaking at a strategic stakeholders’ meeting in the Federal Capital Territory on Tuesday, Maiha underscored the need to revitalise veterinary services and enhance livestock productivity to ensure national food security.
The gathering brought together veterinarians, policymakers, development partners, and industry stakeholders to deliberate on challenges and opportunities in the sector. Discussions centred on improving service delivery, strengthening disease surveillance, and expanding access to veterinary care, particularly in rural communities.
The Minister described effective veterinary services as critical to national development, highlighting their role in animal health, food safety, and economic stability. He identified key challenges facing the sector, including inadequate infrastructure, a shortage of skilled personnel, and limited access to modern diagnostic tools, while calling for urgent, coordinated action to address these gaps.
“The revitalisation of veterinary services is essential for boosting livestock production and securing the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians who depend on this sector,” Maiha said.
Stakeholders at the meeting called for increased collaboration among Federal, State, and local governments, as well as greater investment in veterinary education, technology, and public-private partnerships.
Dignitaries in attendance included representatives of the College of Veterinary Surgeons of Nigeria and the Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, Dr. Maimuna Abdullahi Habib. Academic leaders such as the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Professor Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu, and the Vice-Chancellor of Federal University Gashua, Professor Maimuna Waziri, were also present, underscoring the role of education and research in advancing veterinary services. Dr. Jude Undiandeye, Director of Veterinary Services for Cross River State, contributed to discussions on strengthening veterinary systems at the state level.
The meeting ended with a collective commitment to implement practical solutions aimed at strengthening veterinary systems and supporting sustainable livestock development across Nigeria. The initiative marks a significant step toward repositioning the country’s veterinary services in line with global best practices.
Arit Ubi
