Nigeria’s livestock sector could unlock huge food and economic gains — but experts say prevention, not outbreak response, is the real game changer.
The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) says preventive animal healthcare is critical to strengthening Nigeria’s livestock industry and securing the nation’s food supply.
Speaking in Ibadan at the graduation of new veterinary paraprofessionals, FAO stressed that early disease detection, vaccination and biosecurity are key to reducing losses and improving livestock productivity.
The newly trained frontline animal health workers are expected to support farmers, especially in rural areas where access to veterinary services is limited.
FAO noted that livestock already contributes nearly 8% to Nigeria’s GDP, but the sector’s full potential remains untapped due to disease outbreaks and weak preventive systems.
Through the programme, vaccination coverage is expanding, labs and disease surveillance are improving, and digital tools are helping real-time reporting of animal diseases.
Stakeholders say stronger animal health services will improve rural livelihoods, boost nutrition, and tackle protein shortages across the country.
Leave a comment