Dr. Mohammad Mahmood Abubakar
In commemoration with the annual world Veterinary Day celebration, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Mohammad Mahmood Abubakar, has assured Veterinarians of the Ministry’s commitment towards assisting and facilitating programmes geared towards resilient and impactful national veterinary service.
Abubakar who was represented by Chief Veterinary officer of Nigeria, Dr Umana Peter made this known during the 2022 Veterinary Day celebration, with the theme ‘ strengthening Veterinary resilient’, in Asaba, Delta State.
He said that it would help preserve animal resources, improve livelihood, promote livestock productivity, food safety and public health and also promote foster International trade.
He said that in ensuring that the welfare of the animals were prioritized, they should remain fit and well enough to be effective in their job.
While speaking on the relevance of the profession, the national President of the Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), Dr. Mrs Olutoyin Adetunberu called for support of the Veterinary officers.
Adetuberu urged the federal and state government to continue to provide the much needed supports for the veterinary profession in the area of man power, training and retraining so as to enable them operate at the time of Veterinary practice of the 21st century.
According to the National President, the Veterinarians need proper tools and support to maintain their personal health and wellness in the discharge of their daily activities.
She added that it would enable them undergo research to better understand the mental and physical burdens veterinarians face.
Speaking on the objective of the event, she said it was to promote animal health and well-being by safeguarding animals against diseases which translates to protecting those who can suffer but cannot speak. Adding that the Veterinarians ensures that the animals had a voice and their welfare a priority.
The National President said that in appreciating the unparalleled efforts of Veterinarians in the area of improving global economy and human disease prevention through control of zoonotic disease.
Speaking after the inauguration of members of the Committee on Private Premises Veterinary Regulation Committee, the state Director of Veterinary Services , Dr Charles Diai said that in ensuring that the practice of Veterinary is being regulated and maintenance of standard in other to operate in the state, hence the need for constituting the Committee by the Veterinary Council of Nigeria.
Diai said it would help checkmate quackery in the profession and that clients are rendered good services.
Highlight of the event was the inauguration of the state Veterinary Committee, keynote lectures and showcasing of products and services of sponsors.