The Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) of Kwara State made a noteworthy impact on Saturday, April 27, 2024, by actively participating in the commemoration of the ‘World Veterinary Day’ at the renowned radio station, Sobi FM.
The annual celebration, typically observed by veterinary professionals globally, aims to recognize the dedicated efforts of veterinary doctors in ensuring the health and safety of all animals.
Dr. Ghali Shukrah Omotayo, a Veterinary Officer of the State Department of Veterinary Services, commended the efforts of all veterinary practitioners in the state.
Dr. Ghali elaborated on the inception of the ‘World Veterinary Day’, which was established by the World Veterinary Association in the year 2000. She noted that it occurs annually on the last Saturdays of April.
She further revealed the essence of the distinct theme that each year carries, adding that the 2024 theme is “Veterinarians are Essential Health Workers” because they play an integral role in safeguarding human lives as well as their mental and social wellbeing.
Dr Musa Imam Abubakar, the vice chairman of the association enlightened the listeners more on the impact of veterinary doctors, highlighting their crucial functions in ensuring the health of animals through clinical medicine and surgery as well as food safety and public health through disease control and meat inspections at abattoirs. He also pointed out the contribution of veterinarians to research, animal production and agriculture.
He passionately emphasized the present difficulties Kwara State encounters regarding the insufficient veterinary personnel. Citing statistics from the World Health Organization which indicates that 75% of infectious diseases originate from animals, Dr. Musa stressed the necessity of allocating additional resources to enhance animal health and safety in the state, aiming to prevent potentially disastrous disease epidemics.
Dr. Ghali provided insights into the most recent cattle poisoning emergency in the state, praising the prompt actions of the state veterinarians’ rapid response team in administering antidotes and confiscating the carcasses to safeguard the public. She advocated for cooperation among all health agencies, promoting a ‘one health’ effort.
On an end note, the NVMA representatives both explained the nature of zoonoses as naturally transmissible diseases between animals and man and encouraged all Kwarans to develop responsible pet ownership and treat animals humanely.