The Kogi State Government has launched a statewide vaccination campaign targeting livestock, with 540,000 doses of the Anthrax Spore Vaccine set to be administered to cattle, sheep, and goats across the state.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Timothy Ojomah, announced this on Tuesday during a stakeholders’ sensitisation meeting in Lokoja.
He stated that the mass vaccination exercise would commence on Monday, 14 October 2024.
Ojomah expressed gratitude to the state governor, Alhaji
Ahmed Usman Ododo, for creating an enabling environment that prioritises livestock health and food security.
He disclosed that the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security had initially provided 40,000 doses of the vaccine, with an additional 500,000 doses donated by the National Coordination Office of the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project and the FMAFS.
“The vaccination campaign is crucial to prevent the spread of anthrax, a serious bacterial infection caused by Bacillus anthracis, which can devastate livestock populations. The disease is naturally found in the soil and can affect both domestic and wild animals. Humans can also contract anthrax through contact with infected animals or contaminated products, potentially leading to severe illness or death. Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent outbreaks,” Ojomah explained.
He added that the vaccination drive would cover all three senatorial districts in the state, urging livestock farmers and herders to ensure their animals receive the vaccine to protect them from the deadly disease.
In his remarks, Dr Olufemi Bolarin, the Kogi State Coordinator of L-PRES, stressed the economic importance of livestock in rural communities, noting that about 30% of the rural population relies on livestock as a primary source of livelihood.
He emphasised that livestock is a key provider of affordable protein and plays a significant role in ensuring food security.
“The donation of these vaccines by Kogi L-PRES underscores our commitment to safeguarding livestock health. This isn’t just about protecting animals; it’s about safeguarding food security, economic growth, and public health. It’s a collective responsibility, and I encourage all stakeholders to take advantage of this initiative,” Bolarin added.
He called on farmers, herders, and stakeholders to support the government’s efforts in strengthening the livestock sector, ensuring a healthier and more resilient future for all.
