The Federal Government and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) have agreed on a $350,000 emergency intervention to improve Nigeria’s response to the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (bird flu). 

Finalised in Abuja on Wednesday during a meeting between the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, and FAO Representative Hussein Gadain, the funding will target disease containment in 11 affected states. 

The intervention, approved under the Technical Cooperation Programme, will enhance surveillance and response mechanisms to protect farmer livelihoods and prevent further spread across the country.

Minister Maiha identified environmental pressures, such as drought, feed scarcity, and cross-border animal movement, as primary drivers for the current outbreak. 

He emphasised that the partnership is essential for building the veterinary capacity needed to transform the livestock sector. 

The agreement also prioritises the eradication of Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), a contagious disease affecting sheep and goats. 

To support this, the Ministry will engage the National Veterinary Research Institute to assess local vaccine production and address supply gaps.

A key outcome of the engagement is the move to accelerate Nigeria’s access to the Global Pandemic Fund through a “One Health” approach, in collaboration with the NCDC and the Ministry of Health. 

Additionally, plans are underway for a high-level Antimicrobial Resistance Conference in June 2026, where President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to be named the African Champion for PPR eradication. 

To ensure long-term sustainability, a new Livestock Donor Working Group will be established to coordinate international support and develop a national strategy for feed and fodder production.

Source: Leadership News
Image Credit: FAO