FG Sets Up National Technical Working Group to Eliminate PPR in Ruminants

The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has taken a major step toward safeguarding Nigeria’s sheep and goat population with the inauguration of a 33-member National Technical Working Group (TWG) on the control and eradication of Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR).

The TWG was inaugurated on Tuesday, in Abuja, as part of renewed efforts to coordinate national action against the highly contagious transboundary animal disease that continues to undermine livestock productivity across the country.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, described PPR as one of the most destructive diseases affecting small ruminants in endemic regions, noting that its impact extends far beyond animal health. 

According to him, the disease threatens the livelihoods of pastoralists and smallholder farmers, weakens food and nutrition security, and limits both domestic and international trade in livestock and livestock products.

Maiha stressed that sheep and goats play a critical economic and social role, particularly for women, youths, and vulnerable rural households, where they serve as a dependable source of income, nutrition, and financial security. 

He explained that eradicating PPR is therefore not only a veterinary necessity but a national development priority with direct implications for poverty reduction, economic diversification, and inclusive growth.

The Minister urged members of the TWG to discharge their responsibilities with commitment and professionalism, assuring them of the Ministry’s full policy support and institutional backing to deliver on the mandate.

In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi, described the TWG as a vital platform for translating policy decisions into effective, coordinated action. 

Represented by the Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, Dr. Samuel Anzaku, she said the group is expected to provide technical guidance on PPR prevention, control, and eradication, while supporting the implementation of the National PPR Control and Eradication Roadmap.

She added that the TWG will also play a key role in strengthening disease surveillance, vaccination programmes, diagnostics, and data management, as well as improving coordination among federal and state institutions, research bodies, the private sector, and development partners.

Earlier, the Head of the Department of Animal Health and Reproductive Services, Dr. Michael Alao Mitchell, said the inauguration of the TWG marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to reinforce its animal health systems and curb the persistent threat posed by PPR to livestock production and rural livelihoods.

The inauguration brought together stakeholders from research institutions, veterinary hospitals, development partners, livestock farmers, the private sector, and other relevant organisations involved in animal health and livestock development.