Nigeria, ECOWAS, FAO move to protect goats, sheep against deadly diseases

Nigeria, along with other ECOWAS countries, the FAO, and WOAH, is intensifying efforts to protect livestock from the deadly Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) disease. During the ‘3rd Meeting of the PPR Global Eradication Programme Regional Roadmap and Blueprint Consultation in the West Africa Region’ in Abuja, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abdullahi Aliyu, announced that Nigeria has procured 12.5 million doses of PPR vaccine. PPR, a highly contagious viral disease affecting small ruminants, causes significant economic losses. Aliyu emphasized the disease’s broader impact on food security and livelihoods, particularly for rural families, youth, and women. The conference, supported by FAO and WOAH, highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts to eradicate PPR in West Africa. Source: Vanguard

Our Review

The strategic initiative by Nigeria and ECOWAS to combat Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) marks a significant step towards safeguarding livestock health and enhancing the agri-food value chain in West Africa. Procuring 12.5 million doses of the PPR vaccine demonstrates a robust commitment to eradicating this highly contagious viral disease, severely impacting small ruminants like goats and sheep. PPR eradication will alleviate substantial economic losses for farmers, securing livelihoods, especially for vulnerable groups such as women and youth who rely on small ruminant farming. Improved livestock health directly translates to increased productivity, ensuring a stable supply of meat and dairy products, thereby enhancing food security and economic stability in the region. This initiative, supported by FAO and WOAH, underscores the importance of international collaboration in addressing agricultural challenges. For stakeholders, this development encourages investment in livestock farming and related businesses, fostering growth and sustainability within the sector. By focusing on eradicating PPR, West African countries can build more resilient and prosperous agri-food systems, benefiting millions of rural families and strengthening regional economies.