The Veterinary Council of Nigeria proudly hosted the second edition of its Continuing Education (CE) webinar yesterday, with the theme: “Veterinarians as Policy Advocates: Giving Voice to Animal Health.” This event marked a monumental occasion for the veterinary profession, coinciding with the establishment of the new Ministry of Livestock Development—a pivotal step toward revolutionizing the livestock sector in Nigeria.

The Keynote Address was delivered by the Honorable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha. In his address, the Minister emphasized how the theme aligns seamlessly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda for livestock reforms. According to the Minister, veterinarians and para-veterinarians play indispensable roles in ensuring animal health and welfare, which directly impact human health, food security, and economic development. The Honorable Minister expressed the Ministry’s commitment to empowering veterinarians to take on more proactive roles in policy advocacy.

He highlighted the unique expertise veterinarians bring to addressing critical issues such as disease outbreaks, food safety, antimicrobial resistance, and climate change impacts on animal health. “Veterinarians are uniquely positioned to provide expert advice and guidance on animal health issues. It is imperative that their voices are heard in policymaking cycles. Together, we can shape policies that tackle the complex challenges in the livestock sector,” the Minister noted. He commended the Veterinary Council of Nigeria for its forward-thinking approach in organizing a program that prepares professionals to engage with government policies and contribute to the sector’s transformation as envisioned by President Tinubu.

The event also featured esteemed speakers who provided insights into various aspects of policy and livestock development. Hon. Idris Abiola Ajimobi, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Livestock Development, discussed “Policy and Regulatory Frameworks: Veterinarians at the Heart of Sustainable Livestock Production and Food Security.” He underscored the necessity of a robust regulatory environment to ensure the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s livestock sector. Neku Edun, Technical Adviser to the Vice President on Animal Breeding Initiatives, presented on “AI Techniques and Technologies: Latest Advancements in Semen Collection, Processing, Storage, and Insemination Techniques.” Her session explored the innovative tools driving advancements in animal breeding and productivity. Animu M. Nyako, MD/CEO of Sebore Farms, delivered a talk on “Sustainable Intensification: Exploring Methods to Increase Livestock Production and Productivity.” He provided actionable strategies for scaling production while maintaining sustainability.

This CE webinar was a clarion call for veterinarians to become vocal advocates for animal health in the policy arena. As the new Ministry of Livestock Development begins its work, veterinarians must seize this opportunity to collaborate with policymakers, ensuring that animal health, welfare, and comfort remain at the forefront of national development.