FG, FAO Launch $350,000 Project to Strengthen Fight Against Bird Flu

The Federal Government has launched a 350,000-dollar project supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization to improve Nigeria’s preparedness, detection and response to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, commonly known as bird flu.

Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, announced the initiative during the opening of a two-day workshop in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. He said the government remains committed to controlling and eventually eliminating the disease in the country.

Maiha noted that Nigeria has recorded repeated bird flu outbreaks since 2021, affecting poultry farms across the country, including major poultry-producing states such as Kano, Plateau and Ogun. He said the outbreaks have caused economic losses, disrupted poultry production and affected livelihoods.

According to the minister, the project will strengthen disease surveillance, laboratory services, reporting systems, emergency response and stakeholder coordination. He also commended the FAO for funding the project through its Technical Cooperation Programme.

Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi, represented by the Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, Samuel Anzaku, said bird flu continues to pose a challenge to the poultry industry and the economy. She urged farmers and animal health workers to promptly report suspected cases to help contain the disease.

Representatives of government agencies, veterinary organisations, development partners and poultry industry groups attended the workshop and pledged support for efforts to combat bird flu in Nigeria.