Nigeria and FAO Launch Initiative Against Avian Influenza

The Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), launched a new initiative aimed at combating Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) during a workshop held in Karu, Nasarawa State. The initiative is part of a Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) project, which has received funding of USD 350,000.

The project focuses on strengthening Nigeria's animal health system, enhancing the capacity for early detection and rapid response to HPAI outbreaks. Over the next nine months, the project will train 240 animal health personnel to improve the frontline workforce's capability to prevent and respond to disease outbreaks.

The poultry industry is a critical component of Nigeria's livestock sector, contributing significantly to food security and economic growth. However, it faces ongoing threats from transboundary animal diseases, particularly HPAI, which has re-emerged since its first occurrence in Nigeria in 2006.

The initiative aims to restore livelihoods and reconnect the poultry industry with international markets while addressing the challenges posed by HPAI outbreaks.