The Jigawa State Government has issued a stern warning to livestock traders, transporters, and poultry sellers against engaging in animal cruelty, emphasizing that offenders will face fines and prosecution. This announcement was made by Mudansir Habib, Director of Livestock Extension at the Jigawa State Ministry of Livestock Development, during a sensitization visit to Shuwarin Weekly Market. The visit was part of activities marking Global Animal Welfare Week, highlighting the government's commitment to promoting animal welfare.
The campaign aims to educate livestock traders and transporters on proper feeding, hygiene, safe transportation, and the humane handling of animals. Habib stressed that the government will take strict action against those who violate animal welfare guidelines. The initiative seeks to address common issues such as unnecessary suffering during transportation and harmful handling practices, ensuring that animals receive proper care and protection.
Habib specifically warned transporters moving livestock from northern Nigeria to the southern part of the country against subjecting animals to unnecessary suffering during transportation. He also cautioned poultry sellers against carrying birds upside down and engaging in other harmful handling practices. These warnings are part of a broader effort to promote compliance with animal welfare standards across the state.
The sensitization campaign will be extended to livestock markets across Jigawa State to ensure compliance with animal welfare standards. This move is expected to enhance the understanding of livestock traders and transporters regarding the importance of animal welfare. By doing so, the government aims to discourage harmful handling practices and promote a culture of compassion and care for animals.
The Chairman of the West African Rearers Association, Mustafa Andaza, welcomed the initiative, noting that it will help livestock traders understand the importance of animal welfare. He expressed optimism that the campaign will lead to improved livestock productivity and strengthen the livestock value chain in the state. The collaboration between the government and stakeholders is seen as a crucial step towards achieving these goals.
The campaign, themed “Healthy Animals, Productive Livestock for a Prosperous Jigawa State,” seeks to promote animal welfare, improve livestock productivity, and strengthen the livestock value chain. This initiative aligns with global efforts to ensure that animals are treated humanely and with respect. By prioritizing animal welfare, the Jigawa State Government aims to create a more sustainable and productive livestock sector.
The Jigawa State Government's commitment to enforcing animal welfare guidelines underscores its dedication to promoting a culture of compassion and care for animals. With the support of stakeholders and the livestock industry, the government is poised to make significant strides in enhancing animal welfare and improving the overall productivity of the livestock sector in the state.
Key points
- The Jigawa State Government has warned livestock traders and transporters against animal cruelty, threatening fines and prosecution for violators.
- The campaign aims to educate stakeholders on proper feeding, hygiene, safe transportation, and humane handling of animals.
- The initiative seeks to promote animal welfare, improve livestock productivity, and strengthen the livestock value chain in Jigawa State.