Benue govt urged to step up action against zoonotic diseases

The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) has called on the Benue state government to intensify efforts to prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases, which are infections that can be transmitted from animals to humans, across the state.

Dr Andrew Amine, NVMA chairman in Benue, made the appeal during the commemoration of the 2025 World Zoonoses Day in Makurdi on Monday.

Amine highlighted that over 60 percent of human diseases originate from animals, warning that without prompt intervention, outbreaks could pose severe threats to public health and safety.

“Zoonoses like anthrax are extremely deadly. If an outbreak occurs here, it could endanger the entire city and persist for years,” he said.

The NVMA chairman stressed that the state currently lacks sufficient veterinary personnel to carry out essential tasks such as vaccinations, inspections, and rapid outbreak response.

“We lack the authority and funding to enforce critical measures like vaccinations. The government is expected to have veterinary officers in all Local Government Areas, which we currently do not have,” he said.

“Our role is limited to advocacy and sensitisation, while actual implementation lies with the government.”

He urged the state government to increase recruitment of veterinary doctors and establish stronger partnerships with professional bodies and public health stakeholders to improve disease surveillance and control efforts.

In his keynote address titled “Preventing the Next Pandemic: Strengthening One Health Action Against Zoonoses”, Dr Terungwa Ikyye-Tor underscored the global health threat posed by zoonotic diseases.

He noted that these diseases, caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi, can spread rapidly and unpredictably.

Examples include rabies, salmonellosis, Ebola, avian influenza, cat scratch disease, and parrot fever. These diseases can spread through direct contact with animals, contaminated surfaces, or insect vectors.

Ikyye-Tor stressed the need for a collaborative, cross-sectoral strategy that recognises the interconnectedness of people, animals, and the environment in tackling public health risks.

He also emphasized that simple hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, proper animal handling, and avoiding contact with sick animals, remain vital tools in preventing the spread of zoonoses.