The Federal Government has launched an emergency response to contain an outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease on a commercial farm in Birnin Kudu, Jigawa State. A rapid response team has begun vaccination and surveillance efforts to protect livestock and prevent the disease from spreading across the region.
By Sanni Marvelous
The Federal Government has launched an emergency action to contain the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) at a commercial farm in Birnin Kudu Local Government Area of Jigawa State, following reports of livestock infection and fatalities.
The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development deployed an eight-member rapid response team to the state to halt the spread and protect the nation’s livestock economy — a sector critical to food security and rural livelihoods.
Rapid Response Team Arrives in Jigawa
The delegation, led by Dr. Adeniyi Adedoyin, Director of the Project Coordinating Unit and Coordinator of the National Programme for the Control of Foot and Mouth Disease, included animal health experts from the Ministry and the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI), Vom, Jos.
They were supported by officers from the Jigawa State Livestock Development, led by Dr. Mahmoud Danyaro, the state’s Director of Veterinary Services, as well as representatives of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association and community animal health workers.
Upon arrival, the team assessed the affected Mallam Alu Agro-Allied Company Limited farm, where 34 animals were found showing symptoms consistent with FMD, and six mortalities were confirmed. Laboratory samples were collected for analysis, while ring vaccination began immediately within the affected area to prevent the disease’s spread.
FG Emphasises Commitment to Livestock Protection
Adedoyin explained that the Ministry’s swift response was part of a national strategy to strengthen animal health systems and secure farmers’ livelihoods.
“This vaccination campaign underscores our collective commitment to safeguarding the nation’s livestock economy. Foot and Mouth Disease is one of the most economically devastating animal diseases, and through coordinated action like this, we are taking concrete steps to protect the livelihoods of our farmers and herders,” he said.
He added that the intervention aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy (NL-GAS), which prioritise food security and animal health.
“Nigeria is an FMD-endemic country, so we recommend that vaccination be carried out every six months to keep animals protected and productive,” he noted.
Farmers Urged to Report Early Signs
Adedoyin also emphasised the importance of early disease reporting to prevent widespread outbreaks.
“When farmers observe any unusual symptoms, the first point of contact should be the State Director of Veterinary Services. Timely reporting helps prevent local problems from becoming national or international concerns,” he said.
NVRI Advocates Record-Keeping and Surveillance
The Head of NVRI’s Foot and Mouth Disease Division, Dr. Hussain Ularamu, stressed the need for farmers to maintain health records of their herds for effective response and surveillance.
“We encourage farmers to keep digital and written health records of their herds. This enables veterinarians to respond faster and tailor vaccination and treatment effectively,” he said.
He reaffirmed NVRI’s role in supporting government efforts through vaccine production, diagnostics, and training.
“As the nation’s foremost veterinary research institute, NVRI continues to provide the technical backbone for vaccine production, diagnostics, and capacity building. Our collaboration with state ministries and local communities ensures that science directly benefits the people,” he added.
Community Sensitisation and Local Response
Beyond containment, the response team held a sensitisation meeting with herders, livestock owners, and community leaders in Birnin Kudu, focusing on biosecurity, hygiene, and vaccination schedules to prevent future outbreaks.
The Farm Manager, Isa Mohammed Gadama, commended the Federal Ministry for its prompt intervention and renewed support for livestock management.
“The engagement has opened our eyes to better management practices, and we are now more determined to report cases early and keep our herds healthy,” he said.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association in Birnin Kudu, Adamu Kankau, expressed appreciation for the swift action.
“We are grateful for the government’s quick action. This visit has brought relief and knowledge. We will continue to cooperate with the veterinary officers to protect our herds,” he noted.
State Government Commits to Annual Vaccination Plan
At the end of the mission, the team secured the commitment of the Jigawa State Government, represented by the Commissioner for Livestock Development, Professor Salem Abdurrahman, to implement an annual vaccination plan for FMD and submit periodic disease surveillance reports to the Federal Ministry.
The Federal Government said the initiative forms part of its livestock health improvement roadmap, which aims to ensure early detection, rapid response, and sustainable disease control across Nigeria’s livestock industry.
Read also: Federal Ministry of Livestock Development
