FG Moves to Strengthen Veterinary Services
Last update: April 30, 2026
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The Federal Government of Nigeria called for coordinated action, improved resource utilisation, and sustained reforms to enhance veterinary service delivery.
The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has convened a high-level strategic meeting with Directors of Veterinary Services nationwide, signaling renewed commitment to strengthening animal health systems as a key driver of food security, public health, and economic growth.
CBI News reports that the engagement which took place in Abuja, brought together top government officials, experts and development partners.
Addressing participants, the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, described ongoing reforms in the livestock sector as a “national revolution,” emphasizing the critical role of veterinary professionals in delivering the transformation.
He noted that the ministry is shifting focus from policy formulation to practical, system-level implementation where impact is most needed, and identified weak execution of existing disease control frameworks at state and local levels as a major challenge.
Maiha stressed that real success depends on effective service delivery at the grassroots, particularly among farmers, pastoralists, livestock markets, and abattoirs.
He revealed that Key priorities outlined include strengthening disease surveillance systems, expanding laboratory and diagnostic capacity, modernising infrastructure, and improving governance.
He also called for increased private sector participation, noting that government alone cannot meet the growing demand for veterinary services.
Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, highlighted the growing global recognition of veterinary services as essential social services.
He urged stakeholders to embrace innovation, collaboration, and stronger alignment to ensure the sector contributes effectively to national development.
Other speakers, including Permanent Secretary Dr. Chinyere Akujobi and FAO Country Representative Dr. Hussein Gadain, pointed to persistent challenges such as manpower gaps, weak surveillance systems, and under-resourced laboratories.
