Nigeria Moves to Boost Veterinary Services, Attract Livestock Investments

 

"The 2019 PVS Evaluation Mission provides Nigeria with a detailed roadmap for improving veterinary services through recommendations covering 45 critical competencies necessary for an effective animal health system." Maiha.

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming Nigeria’s livestock sector into a globally competitive, resilient and investment-ready industry with the commencement of a high-level Performance of Veterinary Services (PVS) Follow-Up Mission in partnership with the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).

Speaking during the reception of the WOAH delegation led by Dr. Bouna Diop in Abuja, Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, said the mission marks a major step in strengthening Nigeria’s animal health systems, improving food security and enhancing the country’s standing in regional and international livestock trade.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi, the minister recalled that the 2019 PVS Evaluation Mission provided Nigeria with a detailed roadmap for improving veterinary services through recommendations covering 45 critical competencies necessary for an effective animal health system.

According to him, the government has since undertaken significant reforms to address identified gaps and strengthen the nation’s veterinary infrastructure.

A key achievement, he noted, is the development of the National Roadmap for Veterinary Services in Nigeria, which brought together a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including veterinary authorities, academics, researchers, professional bodies, private practitioners, livestock producers and development partners.

Maiha described the ongoing follow-up mission as more than a routine assessment, emphasizing that it offers an opportunity for constructive engagement, knowledge sharing and continuous improvement within the sector.

He said Nigeria’s decision to invite WOAH to independently assess progress across the 45 critical competencies demonstrates the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability and global best practices.

“We are not merely seeking an evaluation; we are seeking strategic guidance that will strengthen investor confidence, de-risk the sector and accelerate the growth of the livestock value chain,” he stated.

The minister expressed optimism that the exercise would provide valuable insights into achievements recorded since 2019 while identifying areas requiring further intervention to support sustainable sector growth.

On behalf of the WOAH delegation, Team Leader of the PVS Follow-Up Mission, Dr. Bouna Diop, commended Nigeria’s readiness to subject its veterinary services to independent assessment, describing the move as evidence of a strong commitment to reform.

He stressed that the mission is designed to foster collaboration rather than inspection, noting that global changes since the 2019 evaluation have increased the importance of efficient, adequately resourced and responsive veterinary systems in addressing food security challenges.

Dr. Diop explained that the mission would generate objective evidence to support policy formulation, attract investment and reinforce Nigeria’s reputation as a leader in animal health, livestock development and sustainable food systems.

The mission is expected to conclude with strategic recommendations that will guide the next phase of reforms as the Federal Government pursues its vision of building a modern, productive and globally competitive livestock sector.