The Federal Government of Nigeria has taken a decisive step to address a major threat to its livestock sector by inaugurating a high-level technical committee. This move aims to combat a disease that severely impacts sheep and goats, crucial animals for millions of Nigerians.
Government Inaugurates Technical Working Group in Abuja
On Tuesday, 13 January 2026, in Abuja, the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, officially established a 33-member Technical Working Group (TWG). The group's primary mandate is to lead the fight against Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), a highly contagious and devastating animal disease.
Minister Maiha emphasized the severe impact of PPR, describing it as one of the most destructive transboundary animal diseases affecting the country's livestock. He stated that the disease poses a direct threat to the economic stability of pastoralists and small-scale farmers, thereby endangering national food and nutrition security.
A Multifaceted Threat to Livelihoods and Economy
The minister framed the eradication of PPR as more than just a veterinary issue. He declared it an economic, social, and developmental priority for Nigeria. Maiha highlighted the critical importance of small ruminants like sheep and goats, particularly for women, youth, and vulnerable rural households.
He pointed out that successfully controlling this disease would support broader national goals, including economic diversification, poverty reduction, the empowerment of women and youth, and the enhancement of livestock trade. The minister urged the TWG members to undertake their assignments with the highest levels of dedication and professionalism, promising the ministry's full support.
Strategic Oversight and National Coordination
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Chinyere Akujobi, represented by the Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, Dr. Samuel Anzaku, described the working group as vital. She stated that the TWG would ensure Nigeria's PPR control efforts are technically sound, harmonised, and sustainable.
The outlined responsibilities for the group are comprehensive and include:
- Providing technical oversight on PPR prevention and control measures.
- Supporting the development of a National PPR Control and Eradication Roadmap.
- Promoting coordination among diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, development partners, and farmers.
Dr. Michael Alao Mitchell, Head of the Department of Animal Health and Reproductive Services, noted that the inauguration marks a significant advancement for Nigeria's animal health systems. He called it a crucial step in combating a disease that persistently threatens the livestock sector and rural livelihoods.
The inauguration event demonstrated a collaborative national approach, with participation from stakeholders across research institutions, veterinary hospitals, development partners, and livestock farmers' associations.
