Dr Aliyu Abdullahi, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, announced that the Federal Government has initiated the modernisation of equipment at the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) to enhance vaccine production.
Abdullahi made this declaration on Tuesday at the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) 60th Annual Congress and 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Jos. He was represented by Dr Columba Vakuru, Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria (CVON).
The minister stated that the modernisation of the institute is being supported by World Bank-initiated projects. He expressed optimism that by 2025, the NVRI would operate at full capacity with upgraded equipment, enhanced diagnostic capabilities, and greater opportunities.
Abdullahi mentioned that the NVRI aims to produce 850 million doses of various livestock vaccines annually to meet the growing demands for preventive veterinary medicine.
In addition to vaccine production, Abdullahi noted that the Federal Government has renovated 19 abattoirs and slaughterhouses across the country to ensure the provision of wholesome and safe meat for human consumption.
He also highlighted the provision of cold meat vans to 36 states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), to guarantee that meat is transported to markets in a safe and hygienic manner.
To further enhance livestock resource development, the ministry has constructed Primary Animal Health Centres (PAHC) in all states of the Federation and the FCT. According to Abdullahi, 35 of the PAHCs have been completed, equipped, and handed over to the states.
To address the global threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) to public health and food security, the Federal Government has launched the One Health Antimicrobial Resistance National Action Plan (NAP).
Abdullahi urged conference participants to share experiences and exchange knowledge to foster necessary synergy between the public and private sectors.
He emphasised the importance of sharing knowledge in controlling livestock diseases, particularly Transboundary Animal diseases (TADs) in Nigeria, and assured the association of the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with all stakeholders.
Dr. Moses Arokoyo, NVMA National President, mentioned that the conference would provide participants with valuable insights on utilizing artificial intelligence to bridge the gap between traditional and modern practices in veterinary medicine.
He asserted that such knowledge is crucial in addressing the resurgence of zoonotic diseases and antimicrobial resistance.
Arokoyo commended the Federal Government for establishing the Ministry of Livestock Development and appealed for the reinstatement of the Veterinary Council for federal funding.
“We appeal that the Veterinary Council be reinstated into the funding of the Federal Government. With no funding, quackery in different shades and colours will increasingly become the order of the day,” he appealed.
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