The Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to building a stronger and more responsive veterinary system with the successful validation of a ten year national roadmap for the sector.
The plan, which covers 2026 to 2036, was endorsed after a three day workshop in Abuja convened by the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development alongside development partners and key stakeholders in the livestock industry.
Speaking during the event, the minister stressed that the roadmap comes at a crucial time when animal health systems must be strengthened to respond to emerging global threats. He noted that the document sets out a clear path to improve livestock productivity, safeguard public health, and position Nigeria for safer participation in international trade.
Deliberations at the workshop drew attention to persistent challenges affecting veterinary services, particularly at the state level. These include shortages of skilled personnel, weak disease surveillance systems, and inadequate laboratory infrastructure.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi, pointed out that these structural gaps have continued to limit effective service delivery, calling for urgent and coordinated action to address them.
Idris Ajumobi, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Livestock Development, said the administration is committed to supporting implementation through targeted investments and institutional strengthening.
From a technical standpoint, the Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, Dr Samuel Anzaku, described the roadmap as a well considered document developed through broad consultation. He added that it outlines practical steps and measurable goals for transforming the sector.
Professional bodies welcomed the development, describing it as long overdue. The President of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association, Dr Moses Arokoyo, said the roadmap highlights critical priorities such as funding, infrastructure, and rapid response to animal health emergencies.
International partners also expressed support. A representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization, Dr Otto Vianney Muhinda, commended Nigeria’s ambition and pledged continued collaboration to help drive the reforms.
At the state level, officials indicated readiness to align with the national direction. Plateau State Commissioner for Livestock Development, Dr Sunday Akpa, said the renewed focus on livestock development is already encouraging action across states.
Those responsible for implementation signalled their preparedness as well. Speaking on behalf of directors of veterinary services nationwide, Dr Ibrahim Muhammad Bello said they are fully committed to turning the roadmap into tangible results.
Participants at the workshop also reviewed key areas such as disease surveillance, livestock identification, private sector involvement, and emerging risks including avian influenza. Their discussions led to a set of resolutions aimed at revitalising veterinary services across the country.
Among the priorities identified are improved funding mechanisms, stronger institutions, enhanced disease reporting systems, expanded vaccination efforts, and increased collaboration with private sector players. The roadmap also places emphasis on digital innovation, workforce development, and a coordinated approach that links animal, human, and environmental health.
