“Care for the herd, and the herd will sustain the home.” This African proverb underscores the vital economic role of livestock in families and communities.
As veterinarians gather in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, for the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association’s annual conference this October, they reflect on over a century of veterinary advancements in Nigeria.
Since the formation of the first Veterinary Department in Zaria in 1913, veterinary medicine has become an essential part of Nigeria’s agricultural and public health infrastructure. By tackling disease control, livestock development, food safety, and research, the profession has significantly contributed to national progress.
While veterinary medicine is often seen as focused mainly on animal health, its influence extends further, enhancing livelihoods, ensuring food security, and supporting trade. Its evolution has mirrored Nigeria’s agricultural transformation over the last hundred years.
Organised livestock management in Nigeria predates colonial rule, with systems like the Sarkin Shanu overseeing grazing and market activities. Following the establishment of British rule, these indigenous systems were adapted but became increasingly strained as livestock diseases emerged.
Modern veterinary practices began in 1913 with the Veterinary Department, initially focusing on livestock census and disease control. The appointment of F. R. Brandt as the first Chief Veterinary Officer in 1914 marked a turning point. In 1924, activities moved to Vom on the Jos Plateau, leading to the establishment of the National Veterinary Research Institute, a key centre for research and diagnostics.
Veterinary practice faced early challenges, including devastating outbreaks of rinderpest and trypanosomosis. Veterinary officers implemented crucial surveillance and quarantine measures to protect livestock. They also addressed agricultural pests, recognising the strong link between animal health and food security.
The establishment of a Veterinary School in Vom in 1941 advanced veterinary education, leading to Nigeria’s first veterinary graduate, Dr Bukar Shu’aib, in 1954. The post-independence era saw significant growth in livestock initiatives funded by the government, leading to improved systems for water resources, veterinary care, and livestock markets.
This growth included the emergence of organised livestock enterprises, with a range of commercial farming initiatives improving overall productivity. Veterinary education improved with the establishment of faculties of veterinary medicine at the University of Ibadan and Ahmadu Bello University in the 1960s.
Today, Nigeria boasts over 13,000 veterinarians and about 50,000 veterinary paraprofessionals. Despite this, many livestock farmers still lack access to essential veterinary services and products as the livestock population exceeds 900 million.
Emerging diseases, antimicrobial resistance, urbanisation, and climate change present ongoing challenges. Addressing these will require ongoing investment in veterinary infrastructure and an emphasis on collaboration between public and private sectors.
As Nigeria celebrates a century of veterinary service, the profession aims to build on its legacy, facing future challenges with innovation and resilience. The Veterinary Council of Nigeria in Maitama, Abuja, serves as a testament to this journey, underscoring the vital role veterinary medicine plays in safeguarding animal health, public health, and food systems.
Hail to Nigeria’s Animal Doctors: for over a century, they have safeguarded the nation’s animals and helped build a stronger Nigeria.
