Nigeria's Minister Calls for Enhanced Biosecurity in Pig Industry

Stella Oduem, the Nigerian Minister of Agriculture, emphasized the need for stronger biosecurity surveillance to protect Nigeria’s pig industry from the growing threat of African Swine Fever (ASF). During a technical presentation on the current status of ASF in Nigeria, Alhaji Mukhtar Idi Maiha reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to strengthening biosecurity disease surveillance.

The insights were shared following a study visit to Denmark, where Dr. Yakubu Yanet Ago, the Chief Veterinary Officer, observed best practices in pig production and disease prevention.

The Danish system includes a traceable compensation system for pigs, ensuring farmers receive adequate support during disease outbreaks. Oduem noted that ASF is highly contagious with a 100% mortality rate and has been reported in twelve states across Nigeria.

She stressed the importance of a coordinated effort among federal, state, and local governments to effectively prevent and control ASF, which is comparable to avian influenza in poultry.