FG Plans Veterinary Hospitals In All States, LGAs To Boost Livestock Production

The Federal Government has announced plans to establish fully equipped and functional veterinary hospitals in all states and local government areas across Nigeria to improve animal healthcare and strengthen livestock production.

The Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Maiha, disclosed this in Ado-Ekiti during the commissioning of a Model Veterinary Hospital constructed by the National Coordinating Office of the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES).

Maiha said the Federal Government would pursue the initiative through partnerships with relevant stakeholders, while also supporting the Ekiti State Government to ensure the effective operation of the newly commissioned facility.

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FG Targets Improved Animal Healthcare

The minister said the establishment of functional veterinary hospitals would improve disease diagnosis and treatment, reduce preventable animal deaths and minimise financial losses among livestock farmers.

He urged veterinary personnel to prioritise prompt responses to emergencies, laboratory confirmation of suspected animal diseases and professional service delivery.

According to him, accessible veterinary services are essential to improving livestock productivity and protecting farmers’ investments.

Maiha Commends Oyebanji, Calls For Regular Training

During the visit, Maiha also inspected L-PRES project centres in Ekiti State and commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for supporting the implementation of the project.

He called for regular training and retraining of veterinary personnel to improve their professional capacity and ensure effective service delivery.

The minister also stressed the importance of proper maintenance of the newly commissioned hospital to guarantee its sustainability and long-term benefits to livestock farmers.

Oyebanji Links Project To Agricultural Modernisation

In his remarks, Governor Oyebanji said the veterinary hospital reflected his administration’s recognition that a productive livestock sector required modern infrastructure, competent professionals and accessible animal healthcare services.

He explained that the facility was part of the state’s commitment to agricultural modernisation, economic development and improved livelihoods, particularly for livestock farmers.

The governor said investment in veterinary infrastructure would strengthen the livestock sector and support the state’s broader agricultural development objectives.

21 Model Veterinary Hospitals Constructed Across States

The National Project Coordinator of L-PRES, Dr Sanusi Abubakar, disclosed that the Ado-Ekiti facility was among 21 prototype veterinary hospitals constructed and equipped across 21 states.

He said the facilities were designed to improve access to professional animal healthcare and strengthen livestock value chains.

Abubakar urged the Ekiti State Government, veterinary professionals and livestock associations to take ownership of the hospital and ensure its effective management for the benefit of farmers and communities that depend on livestock production.

Livestock Farmers Welcome New Veterinary Hospital

Representatives of livestock farmers welcomed the commissioning of the facility and appreciated the Ekiti State Government for providing the infrastructure.

They included the National Vice President of the Sheep and Goat Association, Alhaji Elias Bello, and the Chairman of the Ekiti State Pig Farmers Association, Pastor Albert Aribisin.

They described the hospital as a positive development that would improve access to veterinary services and support livestock farmers.

Facilities Available At The Model Veterinary Hospital

The newly commissioned Model Veterinary Hospital is equipped with several facilities designed to provide comprehensive animal healthcare services.

These include:

• Surgical theatre

• Consulting rooms

• Veterinary pharmacy

• Diagnostic laboratory

• Haematology unit

• Ultrasonography unit

• Radiology unit

• Ambulatory veterinary services

The ambulatory service is expected to extend veterinary care to farmers in rural communities, making it easier for them to access professional treatment for their animals.

The initiative is expected to contribute to improved animal health, reduced livestock losses and stronger agricultural productivity.