The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating rabies in Nigeria by 2030, aligning with the global target for the deadly but preventable disease.
Speaking at a joint ministerial press briefing in Abuja ahead of World Rabies Day, marked annually on September 28, the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Maiha, described rabies as one of the deadliest zoonotic diseases still affecting Nigerians.
He emphasized government’s determination to eradicate it through the One Health approach.
According to the minister, nationwide vaccination campaigns for dogs and cats are already underway, coupled with intensified public awareness efforts and strengthened veterinary services, particularly in underserved areas.
Alhaji Maiha stressed that rabies eradication remains central to Nigeria’s livestock development and food security agenda, assuring that the country is fully committed to achieving zero human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by 2030.
He urged state governments, local councils, veterinary professionals, and community leaders to key into the national rabies elimination plan to ensure success.
Written by Gladys Haruna