12th VETERINARY COUNCIL BOARD INAUGURATED IN ABUJA .... As Maiha Calls For Innovation

"The VCN, as one of the foremost regulatory agencies of government, has a critical role to play in advancing the livestock sector. The task ahead calls for utmost commitment and dedication." Idi Maiha.

"Enhanced research efforts would enable the Council to reposition Nigeria’s livestock industry, drawing inspiration from countries like Brazil, where the livestock value chain significantly contributes to Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The 12th Board and newly elected Principal Officers of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN) has been inaugurated by Idi Mukhtar Maiha, the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development in Abuja.

At the event which took place on Wednesday 12 March 2025, the Minister called on the Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN) to collaborate with key stakeholders to drive transformation in Nigeria’s livestock sector.

According to the Livestock Development Minister in a statement issued and signed by Ben Ben Goong, the Director of Press and Public Relations Department of the Ministry, "achieving radical change in the sector requires transformation in critical areas such as peacebuilding, feed and fodder development, capacity building, disease-free zones, and research and development."

Maiha noted that enhanced research efforts would enable the Council to reposition Nigeria’s livestock industry, drawing inspiration from countries like Brazil, where the livestock value chain significantly contributes to Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

"I want to reiterate that the VCN, as one of the foremost regulatory agencies of government, has a critical role to play in advancing the livestock sector. The task ahead calls for utmost commitment and dedication. 

"With the present board comprising both new and returning members, I charge you not only to sustain past achievements but to elevate the Council’s regulatory functions within the livestock value chain," Maiha stated.

In a goodwill message, the Honourable Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Dr. Aliyu Abdu Sabi Abdullahi, encouraged the adoption of innovative approaches to reposition Nigeria’s livestock sector.

Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, Dr. Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi, underscored the importance of synergy among Council members to drive sectoral improvements.

President of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, Professor Matthew Adamu, in his remarks, also highlighted the need for collaboration and collective effort in advancing the veterinary profession and enhancing livestock productivity in Nigeria.

12th March, 2025