Livestock Ministry Inaugurates Taskforce to Eradicate Livestock Plague

News in brief:

-A 33-member National Technical Working Group has been inaugurated to lead Nigeria’s PPR control and eradication efforts.

-The initiative aims to protect livelihoods, strengthen food security, and expand livestock trade.

The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development recently inaugurated a 33-member National Technical Working Group to strengthen Nigeria’s efforts to control and eradicate Peste des Petits Ruminants, a highly contagious disease affecting sheep and goats.

Speaking at the inauguration in Abuja, the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, described PPR as one of the most destructive transboundary animal diseases in endemic regions, including Nigeria. He stated that the disease poses a serious threat to pastoralists, smallholder farmers, food and nutrition security, and the livestock trade.

Why PPR Eradication Matters

The Minister explained that small ruminants play a critical role in the livelihoods of women, youth, and vulnerable rural households, serving as a reliable source of income, nutrition, and financial security.

According to Maiha, eradicating PPR is not only a veterinary obligation but also an economic and social priority that aligns with national goals for economic diversification, poverty reduction, and expanded participation in regional and international livestock markets.

Mandate and Expectations of the Technical Working Group

While inaugurating the task force, Maiha urged members of the Technical Working Group to carry out their responsibilities with professionalism and commitment, assuring them of full policy backing and institutional support from the Ministry of Livestock Development.

The group is expected to provide technical oversight for PPR prevention, control, and eradication, as well as support the implementation of the National PPR Control and Eradication Roadmap nationwide.

Permanent Secretary Highlights Coordination and Sustainability

In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi, described the Technical Working Group as a key institutional mechanism for translating policy into effective and measurable action.

Represented by the Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, Dr Samuel Anzaku, she said the task force would ensure Nigeria’s PPR response remains technically sound, harmonised across institutions, and sustainable in the long term.

Strengthening Surveillance, Vaccination, and Partnerships

The Permanent Secretary outlined core areas of focus for the group, including strengthening surveillance, vaccination campaigns, diagnostics, and data management systems.

She also emphasised the importance of effective coordination among federal and state governments, research institutions, veterinary services, the private sector, livestock farmers, and development partners.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Head of the Department of Animal Health and Reproductive Services, Dr Michael Alao Mitchell, said the inauguration marked a major milestone in strengthening Nigeria’s animal health systems and protecting rural livelihoods from the impact of PPR.

The event drew participation from research institutions, veterinary hospitals, development partners, livestock farmers, and private sector stakeholders, highlighting the collective effort required to eradicate the disease nationwide.