FG, Veterinary Council Step Up Action Against Livestock Malpractices

The Federal Government says it will work closely with the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association and other stakeholders to curb malpractices in the poultry and livestock sector.

The Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, Dr Samuel Anzaku, stated this in Abuja at a three-day training and retreat organised by the Veterinary Council of Nigeria for its staff. He expressed concern over rising cases of unwholesome practices, including the activities of quacks and some day-old chick producers and hatcheries that short-change farmers.

Anzaku said addressing the problem requires strong collaboration between the Federal Government and the Veterinary Council as the regulator of veterinary practice. He added that other stakeholders, including the NVMA, state directors of veterinary services and private sector operators, must also be involved.

He noted that the training was aimed at equipping VCN staff with the knowledge needed to improve service delivery, adding that lack of clarity on roles and responsibilities could affect efficiency in public service and animal healthcare delivery.

Speaking at the event, Acting Registrar of the VCN, Dr Oladotun Fadipe, said the training was organised to align the council with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He said the council developed a strategic plan in 2025 to guide its operations, despite not receiving Federal Government funding for two years.