The National Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) is advocating for a significant boost in livestock production in Nigeria to transform the country's economy. During a recent conference, NVMA President Moses Arokoyo highlighted the potential economic contributions of ₦720 billion from sectors such as broiler production and cattle artificial insemination. Arokoyo emphasized the crucial role veterinarians play in public health, noting that zoonotic diseases are responsible for 2.6 billion illnesses and approximately 2.7 million deaths annually [8eb7e4f4].
In light of these statistics, Arokoyo called for the establishment of a dedicated Ministry of Livestock Development, a promise made by President Bola Tinubu. This ministry would focus on enhancing livestock management and production practices, which are vital for improving the agricultural sector and overall economic growth [8eb7e4f4].
The NVMA is also preparing to celebrate its 100th anniversary at a national conference in Jos, where discussions will center around the future of livestock production in Nigeria and its potential to contribute significantly to the nation's GDP [8eb7e4f4].
As the country faces various challenges in livestock management, including disease outbreaks and inadequate veterinary services, the NVMA's advocacy for increased investment and support in this sector is more critical than ever. The association's efforts aim not only to boost economic growth but also to enhance public health outcomes by addressing the risks associated with zoonotic diseases [8eb7e4f4].