The Lagos State Government has introduced TELE-VET, Nigeria’s first Tele-Veterinary Call Centre, a digital initiative designed to give farmers and pet owners immediate access to certified veterinary experts through their mobile phones.
Speaking during the launch at the State Animal Hospital, Oko-Oba, Agege, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, said the platform represents a major leap in food safety, animal health management, and technology-driven agricultural innovation in Lagos and across the country.
She noted that TELE-VET provides fast, professional veterinary support for residents who often struggle to access timely care.
The Commissioner explained that the service operates through the existing M-Agric and M-Health mobile platforms on MTN and Glo networks. By dialing *20791#, users can subscribe for ₦100 per day, ₦300 per week, or ₦500 per month and gain access to expert guidance, while active subscribers can reach the Call Centre at no extra cost.
She added that the service offers emergency assistance, first-aid instructions, disease-prevention tips, and livestock and pet care advisory services—helping farmers save time, reduce losses, and avoid long-distance clinic visits.
Olusanya also highlighted the platform’s role in early detection of zoonotic diseases, aligning with global “One World, One Health” principles that link human, animal, and environmental well-being.
She said TELE-VET sets a foundation for future digital expansions, including livestock insurance, e-commerce for veterinary supplies, improved animal mobility systems, and new financing opportunities for farmers.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Emmanuel Audu, described TELE-VET as a major investment in Lagos State’s food security architecture.
He stated that the government has strengthened technical systems, infrastructure, and staffing to ensure a reliable, world-class call centre capable of responding swiftly to the needs of farmers and pet owners across all 57 LGAs and LCDAs.
Audu added that the platform will improve livestock management, reduce animal losses, and enhance surveillance for potential disease outbreaks.
Also speaking, the Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Rasheed Macaulay, said TELE-VET introduces a new standard for veterinary service delivery in Lagos State by connecting residents directly to professional support regardless of their location.
He emphasized that real-time consultations, better documentation, and improved reporting will boost disease surveillance efforts and strengthen the State’s food safety systems.
