The Kogi State Government has initiated a widespread immunization program for goats, sheep, and cattle.
540,000 doses of the anthrax spore vaccine were administered in order to shield animals against the lethal illness.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ sensitization in Lokoja in Tuesday, Hon. Timothy Ojomah, the Kogi State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, announced the commencement of the vaccination exercise to begin Monday, 14 October 2024.
He conveyed his appreciation to State Governor Alh. Ahmed Usman Ododo for establishing a favorable atmosphere that supports the well-being of cattle inside the state.
The initial distribution of 40,000 doses of the anthrax spore vaccine was made by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS) through its Department of Veterinary and Pest Control Services, Hon. Ojomah said.
Furthermore, the FMAFS and the National Coordination Office of the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) gave the Kogi State Ministry of Agriculture an additional 500,000 doses.
He stressed the importance of the immunization program, pointing out that Bacillus anthracis, a rod-shaped, Gram-positive bacterium, is the source of anthrax, an uncommon but deadly disease.
The disease mostly affects domestic and wild animals and is found naturally in the soil. Contact with contaminated animal products or diseased animals can expose humans to anthrax, which can cause serious illness and even death. Animals that are vulnerable to vaccinations are still the best line of defense. He noted.
All three senatorial districts in Kogi State will be included in the vaccine campaign, which will target sensitive animals such as goats, sheep, and cattle. To safeguard their animals from this harmful illness, I implore all farmers and livestock owners to make sure their animals are vaccinated,” the Commissioner said.
Prior to this, Dr. Olufemi Bolarin, the L-PRES State Coordinator for Kogi, emphasized the socioeconomic significance of livestock in rural regions, pointing out that roughly 30% of the impoverished in rural areas depend on livestock as their main source of income. He clarified that livestock is an essential and reasonably priced source of protein and that it contributes significantly to food security.
“Kogi L-PRES’s contribution of these vaccines demonstrates our dedication to cattle health in addition to being a kind gesture. Protecting livestock is not simply a personal issue for farmers but a shared obligation for all stakeholders, considering its impact on food security, economic growth, and public health,” Dr. Bolarin stated.
He urged all parties involved to take use of this chance to fortify the livestock industry, guaranteeing a more robust, resilient, and sustainable future for everybody.
