The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) has raised concern over the alarming global toll of 2.7 million deaths annually attributed to zoonotic diseases — infections transmitted between animals and humans.
The association made the disclosure during a press briefing in Jalingo, Taraba State, as part of its 62nd Annual Congress and General Meeting (AGM) themed “Animal Health, Food Safety and Security: Ensuring a Healthy and Productive Nigeria.”
NVMA National President, Dr. Moses Arokoya, noted that 65 per cent of human infections originate from animals, while 75 per cent of emerging diseases are zoonotic in nature.
“Zoonotic diseases are now a major global health concern,” Arokoya said, warning that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses an even greater future threat.
He cited projections that by 2050, AMR could cause up to 39 million deaths yearly worldwide if not urgently addressed.
The association also lamented the deteriorating condition of abattoirs across Nigeria and the acute shortage of veterinarians in many of the country’s 774 local councils.
“Veterinarians are the gatekeepers of public health,” Arokoya stressed. “Their absence in many communities heightens the risk of unsafe meat and disease transmission.”
NVMA therefore called on government to declare a state of emergency on abattoir infrastructure, strengthen meat hygiene, and boost veterinary surveillance systems.
The four-day congress is expected to feature Vice President Kashim Shettima, state governors, and international delegates.
Zoonotic diseases, according to experts, are infections that can spread between animals and humans, underscoring the need for stronger veterinary and public health collaboration in Nigeria.