NVMA's Dr Omotugba Advocates for Stronger Rabies Laws

The Kogi Chapter of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), under the leadership of Chairman Dr Tolu Omotugba, has urged for the review and domestication of the Kogi State Rabies Control and Responsible Dog Ownership Bill 2026. This call was made during a news conference in Lokoja on World Rabies Day, where Omotugba emphasized the inadequacy of existing laws, such as the Rabies Act of 1935 and the Dogs Law, Cap 36 of Northern Nigeria, in addressing modern rabies challenges.

He proposed that the new bill should mandate annual rabies vaccinations, establish a dog registry, and implement penalties for irresponsible dog ownership. Omotugba highlighted the urgency of the situation, citing a tragic incident in 2025 where 12 lives were lost in Bassa LGA due to rabies.

He praised the Federal Government's vaccination initiatives and called for dedicated funding for One Health projects to support rabies control efforts in Kogi State.