Nigeria livestock vaccine reform gains momentum as Federal Government partners firms to combat animal diseases and improve vaccine access for farmers

The Federal Government has intensified efforts to combat livestock diseases and improve vaccine access across Nigeria, as part of renewed measures aimed at strengthening food security and boosting agricultural productivity.

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Nigeria animal health vaccine reform initiative drive was highlighted on Sunday following a meeting in Abuja between the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, and representatives of Ambuvets Konsult and MCI Santé Animale.

According to a statement from the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, the engagement focused on tackling persistent animal health challenges affecting farmers nationwide, including Peste des Petits Ruminants, Foot-and-Mouth Disease, and Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia.

These diseases have continued to reduce livestock productivity, impact rural livelihoods, and place pressure on Nigeria’s broader food supply chain.

Speaking during the meeting, Idi Mukhtar Maiha emphasised that animal health remains a critical component of the government’s agricultural reform agenda, describing disease prevention and control as central pillars of ongoing sector transformation.

“We are undertaking an ambitious transformation of the livestock sector, one in which disease prevention, control, and management are central pillars,” the minister said.

He further noted that collaboration with private sector partners would play a vital role in strengthening Nigeria’s capacity to respond to transboundary animal diseases and improve vaccine availability for farmers across the country.

The ministry explained that the partnership involves Ambuvets Konsult, a Nigerian animal health company, and MCI Santé Animale, a veterinary pharmaceutical firm, both working to enhance vaccine production, distribution, and accessibility.

Shehu Shamsudeen, Chief Executive Officer of Ambuvets Konsult, said the initiative is designed to close existing gaps in vaccine supply by combining local and international expertise in manufacturing and logistics.

For his part, Tadlaoui Omari Khalid, Chief Executive Officer of MCI Santé Animale, stressed the importance of African-led solutions to animal health challenges, calling for stronger continental collaboration in veterinary innovation.

“We have to come together and find the right solutions for ourselves,” he said.

The ministry also confirmed that the initiative will involve the National Veterinary Research Institute, which will support vaccine trials and ensure products meet local environmental and epidemiological conditions.

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Officials say the initiative represents a significant step forward in Nigeria’s efforts to modernise its livestock sector and strengthen long-term food security.