Kogi Veterinarians Seek Improved Welfare, More Hiring

Veterinarians in Kogi State have called for better welfare and increased recruitment into the civil service, citing a shortage of professionals across the country.

The appeal was made by the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association, Kogi chapter, during activities to mark World Veterinary Day 2026 in Lokoja. Speaking at the event, the state chairman, Dr. Tolu Omotugba, said fewer than 10,000 veterinarians are serving Nigeria’s population of over 200 million, leaving many overstretched.

He said veterinarians play a key role in food safety and public health but operate under poor conditions. According to him, many report to abattoirs as early as 5:30 a.m. to certify meat and milk, despite limited laboratory facilities and inadequate welfare packages.

The association urged Governor Ahmed Ododo to approve a proposed N300,000 monthly stipend for veterinarians, similar to what is paid to medical doctors in the state. Omotugba said the governor had earlier given assurances, and the association is awaiting approval.

He also raised concerns about unqualified practitioners, warning that misuse of antibiotics is contributing to antimicrobial resistance. He said the association has shut down illegal outlets, arrested offenders, and plans to meet with drug vendors to strengthen regulation.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Livestock Development, Dr. Olufemi Bolarin, commended veterinarians for their work and called them essential to disease prevention and safe food production. He said the state government is supporting animal health through vaccination, training, and improved surveillance.

Bolarin added that plans are underway to establish a model livestock city in partnership with international organisations, while the government will sponsor veterinarians to professional conferences and restore livestock control posts.

The event featured a road walk through parts of Lokoja to highlight the role of veterinarians in public health and food safety.