13/08/2026
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FOOD SAFETY: VETERINARY DIRECTORATE TRAINS STAFF ON DISEASE PREVENTION, CONTROL
In a concerted effort to strengthen food safety, safeguard public health and prevent the spread of animal diseases, the Directorate of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture has organised a comprehensive capacity-building workshop for members of staff.
Addressing participants on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at the Ministry Headquarters, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. (Mrs.) Offiong Offor, called on veterinary professionals and other stakeholders to intensify efforts towards preventing animal diseases and promoting food safety.
Offor particularly stressed the importance of the proper administration of veterinary medications, noting that appropriate use of veterinary drugs is essential to protecting both animal and human health.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. (Mrs.) Atim Okoko, the Commissioner encouraged participants to actively engage in the training and make practical use of the knowledge and skills acquired from the resource persons.
In his opening remarks, the Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Teddy Essien, expressed appreciation to the leadership of the Ministry for approving the training, while urging veterinary professionals to remain committed to improving animal health, strengthening disease control measures and ensuring the safety of food consumed by the public.
In their separate goodwill messages, representatives of the World Health Organization, Mabel Amarachi; the Ministry of Environment, Mr. Daniel Daniel; and the Poultry Association of Nigeria, Alexander Bassey, among others, advocated for the establishment of a well-equipped veterinary laboratory to facilitate the testing and diagnosis of infected animals and ensure that appropriate treatment is administered.
The workshop featured presentations by seasoned resource persons, including Dr. Aniefiok Udom, Dr. Aniefiok Okokon, Bishop Dr. Edem Offiong, Dr. Nchiek Eneh, Mr. Gabriel Udoh and Dr. Abraham Ajibola, who shared valuable insights on food safety, animal health, disease prevention and control.
The capacity-building workshop was attended by the State Chairman of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), Dr. Ekaette Augustine; her counterpart from Edo State, Dr. Sampson Agbese; Directors in the Ministry; veterinary Doctors and other relevant stakeholders.
The training underscores the Ministry's commitment to strengthening veterinary services, promoting responsible animal health practices and protecting the public through improved food safety and effective disease prevention and control.
Info/PR Unit
MOA, AKS