"Use Your Boots on the Ground to Protect Nigeria’s Livestock" - Mukhtar

The Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, has called on Veterinarians and Veterinary Paraprofessionals in the Nigerian Police Force to leverage their nationwide deployment to strengthen disease surveillance, support vaccination campaigns, and help curb farmer-herder conflicts. 

He gave the charge on Friday, 7th November 2025, while declaring open a two-day capacity-building workshop organised by the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) in Abuja, for Veterinarians and Veterinary Paraprofessionals serving in the Nigerian Police Force, 

In his address, the Minister expressed delight at the number of veterinary professionals within the Police Force, noting that their presence across the states positions them as key contributors to national livestock development. 

He urged participants to strengthen disease control and eradication efforts, collaborate with farmers and herders, and proactively address early warning signs of conflict. 

“With more than 80 veterinarians and over 70 veterinary paraprofessionals within the Nigerian Police Force, you represent one of the most strategically positioned teams in the country. 

Your boots are already on the ground in every state. I urge you to use that presence to strengthen disease surveillance, support vaccination campaigns, and intervene early where tensions between farmers and herders begin to surface. Your contribution is vital to safeguarding Nigeria’s livestock sector and securing our national food system,” he said. 

Mukhtar also directed the Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria (CVON) to engage police veterinary personnel in ongoing nationwide vaccination and surveillance campaigns against transboundary animal diseases.

Representing the Inspector General of Police, AIG Aishatu Baju Abubakar, mni, commended the Minister’s visionary leadership and acknowledged the significant support provided by L-PRES. 

The CVON, Dr. Samuel Anzaku, highlighted current national efforts against Rabies, PPR, FMD, and other priority diseases, praising the Ministry’s direction and commitment.

Delivering the welcome remarks on behalf of the National Project Coordinator, Dr. Mustapha Mohammad encouraged participants to strengthen collaboration and safeguard L-PRES infrastructure nationwide. 

Oghenekevwe Uchechukwu
Head, Press and Public Relations 
10th November, 2025