The Federal Government has introduced stricter measures on animal imports, including setting up control posts at key border points to regulate livestock movement. This initiative aims to protect public health and safeguard Nigeria’s livestock industry.
On Tuesday, Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, announced the plan while meeting a delegation from the Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) in Abuja. He confirmed that the government would detain animals lacking proper health certification upon entry to Nigeria to prevent the spread of animal diseases.
Government Sets Up Border Posts to Curb Disease Outbreaks
Maiha raised concerns over the unchecked influx of livestock into Nigeria, with 60% of cattle crossing from neighboring countries without proper checks.
“I have seen over 10,000 animals cross into Nigeria in a single week. The first cases of anthrax in Nigeria came from outside the country due to the lack of control at the borders,” he explained.
The Minister vowed to address this challenge by creating inventory, building, and manning control posts at strategic locations along border routes.
“Once the posts are set up, NAQS officials, veterinary doctors, and security agents will monitor and ensure compliance,” he added.
Clamping Down on Illegal Donkey Skin Exports
Maiha also issued a stern warning against illegal donkey skin exports. He expressed concern over the declining donkey population, attributing it to excessive poaching.
“We will not allow the illegal export of donkey skin without proper authorization. We are committed to protecting our livestock resources and regulating this sector,” he said.
Government Tackles High Meat Prices Due to Extortion
Regarding the rising cost of meat, the Minister linked the price hike to illegal extortion of livestock transporters. He shared that a survey revealed more than 700 illegal checkpoints where drivers face extortion, raising the cost of meat.
“Truck drivers from Mubi to Lagos, Calabar, Bayelsa, and Jigawa are subjected to excessive fees. These illegal charges directly affect meat prices. We are working on collecting data and implementing policies to remove these checkpoints,” he said.
NAQS Vows Support for Agricultural Regulations
Dr. Vincent Isegbe, Comptroller General of NAQS, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to preventing animal diseases and regulating agricultural imports. He announced that NAQS operates in all six geopolitical zones of Nigeria and has partnered with countries like Mexico and China to boost regulatory efforts.
“We aim to prevent animal diseases and enforce agricultural safety standards. We have already intercepted illegal imports and educated farmers on safer livestock and crop practices,” Dr. Isegbe explained.
He emphasized the need for closer collaboration with the Ministry of Livestock Development to strengthen regulations and protect the agricultural sector from harmful imports.
