The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public health and the nation’s livestock sector by enforcing strict regulations on animal imports.
“Any animal entering Nigeria without proper health certification will be detained,” declared the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha.
Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, while hosting a delegation from the Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS), Maiha emphasized the need for tighter controls on animal imports.
He also raised concerns about the rapid decline in the donkey population, stressing that no donkey skin should be exported without proper legal authorization.
The Minister revealed that approximately 60% of cattle entering Nigeria originate from neighboring countries, often crossing the borders unchecked.
To address this issue, the Federal Government plans to establish control posts at key border points to regulate livestock movement.
“I have personally observed over 10,000 animals crossing into Nigeria within a single week. The first cases of anthrax in Nigeria came from outside the country due to the lack of border controls.
“This issue must be resolved. We are committed to tracking livestock movement, setting up control posts, and ensuring they are properly staffed to mitigate further risks.
“Once these posts are operational, the Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) will play a crucial role. Veterinary doctors, security agents, and NAQS officials will be deployed to strengthen border surveillance,” he stated.
Maiha also addressed the rising cost of meat, attributing it to illegal fees imposed on truck drivers transporting livestock.
A government survey identified over 700 checkpoints along major livestock transport routes, where drivers are subjected to extortion.
“From Mubi in Adamawa State to Jigawa, Calabar, Bayelsa, and Lagos, excessive levies on truck drivers directly contribute to the high cost of meat and other livestock products.
“We are gathering data and developing policies to eliminate these illegal roadblocks and reduce the price of meat,” he assured.
In response, the Comptroller General of NAQS, Dr. Vincent Isegbe, reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to preventing animal diseases and regulating agricultural imports.
He highlighted that NAQS operates in all six geopolitical zones and is actively engaging in international agreements with countries such as Mexico and China to enhance regulatory oversight.
“Our mission is to prevent the spread of animal diseases and enforce agricultural safety standards. We have intercepted illegal agricultural imports and conducted awareness programs to discourage farmers from using harmful chemicals in livestock feed and crop preservation,” Dr. Isegbe stated.
He emphasized the need for stronger collaboration with the Ministry of Livestock Development to improve regulatory measures and safeguard Nigeria’s agricultural sector from harmful imports.
