Government Boosts Veterinary Partnerships to Achieve Rabies Eradication by 2030
In a decisive effort to strengthen veterinary healthcare and contribute to the global mission of eliminating rabies by 2030, the federal government, via the Ministry of Livestock Development, has provided the University of Abuja Veterinary Clinic with 700 doses of the anti-rabies vaccine.
During a formal ceremony held in Abuja on Friday, Samuel Anzaku, Nigeria’s Chief Veterinary Officer (CVON), highlighted that this contribution reflects the ministry’s dedication to fostering innovation, advancing research, and enhancing disease control measures within the nation’s livestock sector.
Leading the ministry’s delegation, Anzaku disclosed that the donation package also contained essential items such as syringes, cotton wool, disinfectants, and other critical supplies required for efficient disease management. He stressed the necessity of meticulous record-keeping and transparent reporting of vaccination efforts both at the university and in surrounding communities.
“The Ministry of Livestock Development values the University of Abuja’s pivotal role in veterinary education and practical research. This partnership is designed to broaden vaccination outreach and strengthen disease monitoring frameworks,” Anzaku remarked.
In his address, Matthew Adamu, acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, expressed gratitude for the ministry’s support and committed to the prudent management of the vaccines and related materials. He stated, “Under Chief Veterinary Officer Anzaku’s guidance and the federal government’s renewed focus on livestock health, we anticipate significant progress in veterinary care, especially in disease surveillance and reaching underserved livestock communities.”
Adamu also encouraged Nigerian universities to develop exemplary ranches that serve as centers for education, research, and income generation. He believes such initiatives will strengthen collaboration between academic institutions and government agencies, accelerating advancements in livestock development.
This collaboration reaffirms the federal government’s commitment to fostering inter-agency cooperation and sustaining preventive health initiatives aligned with the One Health framework, which integrates animal and human health to improve overall community well-being.