By: Ahmed Rufa’i
The Jigawa State Ministry of Livestock Development has so far vaccinated over 150,000 cattles against Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP) under the first round of a large-scale free vaccination campaign in the state.
This was contained in a press statement issued signed and made available to National Update in Dutse, the state capital by the Media Aid to the commissioner for Livestock Development Mr. Abdullahi Rabiu Jikas said the development is parts of the state government efforts through the new ministry to strengthen animal health services, protect pastoral livelihoods and enhance food security in Jigawa State.
According to the statement the intervention is one of the governor Malam Umar Namadi’s 12 points agenda cardinal principles of livestock development execution under the commissionership of the Honourable Commissioner for Livestock Development, Prof. Abdulrahaman Salim Lawan the pioneer commissioner of the ministry.
Mr Abdullahi Rabiu Jikas added that “CBPP is regarded as one of the most serious transboundary animal diseases affecting cattle, often resulting in heavy economic losses due to reduced productivity, mortality and trade limitations”.
“To tackle the threat, the Ministry deployed veterinary teams across targeted wards, maintained strict cold-chain systems to preserve vaccine potency, and mobilised pastoral communities to ensure effective and comprehensive coverage”.
The vaccination exercise was offered entirely free of charge, demonstrating the state government’s commitment to supporting herders, livestock owners and rural communities.
According to the Ministry, immunising 150,000 cattle represents a significant step towards preventing the spread of CBPP within and beyond Gwaram Local Government Area, safeguarding the economic assets of pastoral households, improving cattle productivity and market value, strengthening disease surveillance and response mechanisms, and promoting sustainable livestock development in the state.
The exercise also featured sensitisation campaigns to educate herders on early disease detection, prompt reporting channels and best practices in animal health management.
Community leaders, veterinary officers and livestock associations were commended for their roles in ensuring a smooth, transparent and successful implementation of the programme.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to modernising livestock services, expanding access to veterinary healthcare and positioning Jigawa State as a leading hub for livestock production in Nigeria.
