Nigeria Targets Eradication of Sheep and Goat Disease by 2030

The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), a highly contagious viral disease affecting sheep and goats, by the year 2030. Chinyer Akujobi, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, announced this goal during a two-day stakeholder workshop in Abuja.

The initiative emphasizes the importance of disease surveillance, vaccination campaigns, and cross-border collaboration to achieve this target. Akujobi noted that eliminating PPR is crucial for reducing poverty, improving rural livelihoods, and expanding trade opportunities.

Nigeria, home to an estimated 200 million sheep and goats, is a significant player in transboundary trade corridors with neighboring countries. The workshop aims to develop an evidence-based national strategic plan for 2026-2030, integrating veterinary services and risk mitigation policies.

Samuel Anzaku, the Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, stated that the country has made significant progress in animal disease control and will update its national strategic plan to align with global PPR eradication efforts.