ABUJA – Idi Mukhtar Maiha, Minister of Livestock Development, has called for the restoration of budgetary allocations to the Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN).
Maiha made the call on Wednesday in Abuja during a briefing session by the President of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Dr.Aishatu Baju, and her team.
Describing the restoration of funding to VCN, as a matter of urgent National importance, the Minister stated that the discontinuation of funding may have been an oversight and vowed to do everything possible to address the situation and bring relief to the Council.
“The Veterinary Council of Nigeria is not an association but a regulatory body, representing the policeman for the livestock sector, which sets standards as well as ensures compliance,” the Minister said.
“The regulatory body also interfaces with the National Universities Commission in the accreditation of Faculties of Veterinary Medicine in Universities,” he explained.
While expressing shock over the stoppage of salaries to staff, who have gone without pay for an entire year, Maiha noted that the Council plays a vital role in ensuring that Nigeria meets international standards for livestock export.
He pointed out that the new direction for the sector aims not just at raising capacity but also ensuring sustainability.
The Minister also addressed critical challenges related to animal welfare, such as transportation and handling. “We need to mount a campaign and come out with alternative standards and sensitisation as to what the standard practices are for the humane treatment of animals,” he said.
Maiha further reiterated that an integrated approach involving government agencies, private stakeholders, and training programmes is essential for a competitive and sustainable livestock sector.
“The time for action is now,” he emphasised.
This was contained in a statement issued by Mr. Ben Bem Goong, Director, Information and Public Relations Department, Federal Ministry of Livestock Development.
Earlier, President of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, underscored the importance of support and funding to enhance the Council’s capacity.
“We need targeted interventions to raise the standards and the capacity of our Universities so that they can produce quality veterinary professionals,” Baju said.
The VCN, as the oldest regulatory agency in Nigeria, is responsible for setting standards for veterinary education and practice, regulating veterinary practices, and maintaining ethical discipline.
It also manages a tribunal for professional misconduct and oversees the accreditation of veterinary faculties.
The Council organises seminars and has established the College of Veterinary Surgeons Nigeria, offering specialist postgraduate courses in various fields such as surgery, pathology, and public health.
This initiative has gained recognition regionally, with other West African colleges interested in adopting similar models.
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