The federal government has pledged commitment to ensuring policies and programmes geared towards inclusiveness and equity in the practice of the veterinary profession in the country.
Minister of state for agriculture and food security, Sabi Abdullahi, pledged the commitment during the commemoration of the World Veterinary Day at the weekend in Abuja.
The event, organised by the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), FCT Chapter, has the theme ‘Veterinarians are essential health workers.’
Abdullahi said the government would ensure effective coordination of veterinary practice to enable the professionals to take their pride of place as essential health workers.
The minister acknowledged that veterinarians were essential in protecting public health, ensuring the safety of the food supply chain, and preventing the transmission of zoonotic diseases to humans, thereby reducing the risk of disease outbreaks.
He added that they help in addressing the impact of animal husbandry on the environment, the spread of diseases from wildlife to domestic animals and the environment, and the conservation of endangered species.
The minister said as pacesetters in public health, veterinarians deserve the attention of both the government and private sectors, for effective service delivery.
According to him, the theme underscores the need for continued support and recognition of the profession and its contributions to society.
The minister added that the theme aligned with the one-health approach involving human, animal, and environmental health in addressing global health security.
“The celebration is significant for recognising and celebrating the contributions of veterinarians to animal health, welfare, and public health.
“Raising awareness about the importance of the veterinary profession and the role of veterinarians in society underscores the need for collaboration between different sectors to address global health challenges,” he added.
Dr Chinna Joe-Iruobe, Chairperson, NVMA, FCT Chapter, identified veterinarians as frontline defenders against zoonotic diseases that could be transmitted from animals to humans.
Joe-Iruobe, however, said despite the invaluable role of veterinarians as essential health workers, they are often overlooked in the country.
“Veterinarians by addressing diseases in wildlife populations, help to maintain ecological balance and biodiversity, but their role is neglected in our country,” she added.
According to her, veterinarians are indispensable members of the healthcare community, working tirelessly to protect both human and animal populations.
“Recognising them as essential health workers is not only a matter of acknowledging their contributions but also ensuring a healthier, safer future for all,” the chairperson said.
