The Gombe State government has initiated a livestock vaccination campaign aimed at protecting animals against major diseases, including Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP), Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), and Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR). Launched on October 7, the campaign targets the 2025/2026 period and seeks to improve livestock health, reduce animal mortality, and safeguard the livelihoods of pastoralists and livestock farmers.
Deputy Governor Manasseh Daniel Jatau, representing Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, emphasized that livestock diseases have significant implications for both animal production and human health. The government has introduced measures to strengthen veterinary services and improve livestock development, including establishing a Ministry of Livestock Development and renovating veterinary clinics across the state.
Farmers who have benefited from the campaign have expressed gratitude, citing the financial losses associated with livestock diseases, which can destroy years of investment. Muazu Mohammed, a livestock farmer in Tunfure, Akko Local Government Area, commended the government for the intervention, noting that improved access to veterinary services and preventive treatment can help farmers protect their herds.
Another pastoralist in Bomala welcomed the exercise, stating that it provides livestock owners with an opportunity to protect their animals against preventable diseases. Sustained vaccination and veterinary support, he added, would help improve livestock production and protect the livelihoods of herders.
However, not all livestock owners have benefited from the campaign, with some farmers in other communities reporting that they have yet to access vaccination services. Abdullahi Isa, a herder in Billiri, expressed concern that he had not seen vaccination officials in his area despite hearing about the government's initiative.
Similarly, Sulaiman Kasimu, a livestock farmer in Tudun Wada, urged the government to extend the exercise to remote settlements where pastoralists often face difficulties accessing veterinary services. The farmers stressed that equitable access to vaccination, sustained veterinary support, and effective monitoring would be essential to ensuring the campaign achieves its objectives.
The initiative offers hope for reducing financial losses caused by preventable livestock diseases, which can have a significant impact on the livelihoods of pastoralists and livestock farmers. As the campaign continues, it is essential that the government addresses the concerns of farmers who have yet to benefit, ensuring that all livestock owners have access to the vaccination services.
Key points
- The Gombe State government has launched a livestock vaccination campaign to protect animals against major diseases.
- Some farmers have benefited from the campaign, while others await services in their communities.
- Equitable access to vaccination and sustained veterinary support are crucial to the campaign's success.
