Veterinary professionals in Nigeria have reaffirmed their commitment to tackling the rising threat of anthrax and other livestock diseases, emphasizing the urgent need for proactive intervention. The Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN) has outlined strategic measures, including a series of retreats aimed at improving efficiency and response to disease outbreaks.

The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development recently confirmed an anthrax outbreak at a farm in Zamfara State, sparking concerns about its potential spread. In response, the Acting Registrar of the VCN, Oladotun Fadipe, has called on the government to take decisive action, stressing that Nigeria requires at least two veterinarians in each local government area to strengthen disease surveillance and containment efforts. He highlighted that curbing livestock diseases at their source is essential not only for animal health but also for safeguarding public health and enhancing national food security.

Fadipe lamented the insufficient number of trained veterinarians in the country, warning that without adequate staffing, outbreaks of anthrax and other livestock diseases will persist. He noted that many states have only a handful of veterinarians, making disease prevention and control challenging. He urged the government to prioritize veterinary employment, stating that if veterinarians were strategically placed at their duty posts, they could detect and contain disease threats before they escalate.

Echoing similar concerns, Dr. Femi Kayode, CEO of Farm Alert, underscored the importance of efficiency and productivity in navigating these challenging times. Speaking at the VCN’s 2025 staff retreat in Abuja, he emphasized the need for veterinarians to reassess their approach and leverage their expertise more effectively. Kayode highlighted the role of technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), in transforming veterinary practices and enhancing disease surveillance. He stressed that by adopting modern tools and fostering a results-driven mindset, veterinarians can significantly improve their capacity to combat livestock diseases.

Deputy Registrar of the VCN, Dr. Helen Oputa, also emphasized the retreat’s significance in reshaping the work ethic of veterinary professionals. She noted that the initiative was designed to motivate staff and instill a renewed sense of dedication to their duties, regardless of existing challenges. Expressing optimism about its impact, she highlighted that participants had already begun implementing lessons learned, demonstrating a shift towards a more proactive and efficient approach to veterinary services.

As Nigeria grapples with recurring outbreaks of zoonotic diseases, experts insist that strengthening the veterinary workforce is not just an option but a necessity. The call for increased veterinary staffing, investment in technological advancements, and strategic policy interventions underscores the critical role of veterinarians in ensuring both animal and human health. Moving forward, a coordinated effort between the government, veterinary professionals, and key stakeholders will be vital in mitigating the risks posed by emerging livestock diseases and securing a more resilient agricultural sector.