The Bauchi State Government has inaugurated its 2025 livestock vaccination campaign, aiming to vaccinate over 2 million animals across its 20 local government areas. This initiative, launched by Governor Bala Mohammed in Itas Gadau Local Government Area, underscores the state’s commitment to improving livestock health and enhancing agricultural productivity.

Vaccination Drive to Curb Diseases and Boost Economy

The campaign, which includes 10,000 doses of rabies vaccines, is a proactive measure against the rising cases of animal bites and rabies outbreaks. In 2024, the state recorded 200 incidents of dog bites, with 23 confirmed cases of rabies. Governor Mohammed urged dog owners to take advantage of free vaccination services at veterinary clinics statewide.

This vaccination initiative aims to bolster livestock health, promote farming, and strengthen the state’s economic foundation. Bauchi, known for its significant livestock population, serves as a hub for herders and farmers, including Fulani cattle breeders displaced by conflicts in other regions.

New Ministry for Livestock Development

To address the challenges facing the livestock sector, Governor Mohammed announced the establishment of the State Ministry of Livestock Development. The ministry will oversee livestock management, animal welfare, and farmer-herder relations, driving economic growth through strategic interventions.

Infrastructure and Partnerships

Bauchi State is partnering with donor organizations, including the World Bank’s L-Pres project, to implement transformative measures such as:

• Constructing 100 semi-dams along cattle routes to ensure water access.
• Establishing clinics, slaughterhouses, and rehabilitating laboratories across 14 local government areas.
• Conducting training programs for 100 veterinarians, health workers, and livestock farmers on disease prevention and treatment.
• Launching farmer feed schools and an agriculture training institute.

Community Engagement and Support

Traditional institutions, religious leaders, and security agencies have been instrumental in maintaining peace and supporting the state’s agricultural initiatives. Governor Mohammed called on residents to engage in farming and livestock production to enhance food security and economic prosperity.

Leaders of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association and Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore commended the governor’s efforts and encouraged livestock owners to vaccinate their animals and take advantage of future agricultural development programs.

Bauchi State’s comprehensive approach to livestock vaccination and development is set to improve animal health, enhance livelihoods, and secure the state’s position as a leader in livestock farming in Nigeria.