Anthrax outbreak, cattle malnutrition threaten Nigeria’s livestock sector

NIGERIA – Nigeria’s livestock sector is facing significant threats due to the outbreak of anthrax and widespread cattle malnutrition, posing serious risks to both milk and meat production in the country. 

The impact of these challenges is evident in the high mortality of cattle and the declining supply of dairy and beef products, raising concerns among stakeholders about food security and economic stability.  

A report by the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development confirmed the outbreak of anthrax in Zamfara State, where more than 50 cows have died. 

The disease, caused by Bacillus anthracis, affects various warm-blooded animals, including cattle, sheep, and goats, and can also be transmitted to humans. 

It is listed as a notifiable disease by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) due to its potential to cause severe outbreaks.  

The Director of Information and Public Relations at the ministry, Ben Bem Goong, stated that the situation demands urgent intervention. 

“The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development wishes to officially notify the public of a confirmed outbreak of anthrax on a farm in Zamfara State. This development calls for heightened vigilance and proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with the disease,” he said. 

Despite these assurances, concerns persist over the country’s porous borders and the low level of awareness among cattle farmers and butchers regarding the disease’s health risks.  

In addition to the anthrax outbreak, malnutrition among cattle continues to hinder productivity. Many herds suffer from inadequate nutrition due to long treks in search of food and water. 

This has contributed to low milk yields, with Nigeria producing only 40 percent of its domestic dairy needs, far below the levels seen in other major dairy-producing nations. 

Experts warn that without immediate intervention, the country will continue to rely on imports to meet demand.  

Veterinary expert Idowu Amosun emphasized the need for improved management practices. “We keep hearing that anthrax disease has been curtailed, but at the same time, we keep seeing a high rate of fatality. We must be deliberate in tackling the problem,” he said.

“Ranching is something we should also take seriously. When you have healthy cows, you will have enough milk. As it stands, we import more milk than we produce.”  

In response to these challenges, the government has expressed its commitment to investing in the livestock sector through foreign partnerships. 

Speaking at a Nestlé Nigeria event, Ukhtar Idi Maiha highlighted the sector’s potential to drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve nutrition.  

Maiha noted that dairy farming presents opportunities for empowering communities, particularly women and youth, and aligns with the national agenda to modernize livestock production. 

He pointed out that Nestlé’s investment would support local dairy farmers by introducing modern farming practices, providing training, and improving cattle breeds for higher productivity.  

The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has also pledged to create a supportive environment for such investments by addressing key challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited access to finance, and the need for better veterinary services. 

The ministry aims to work closely with private sector partners and international development agencies to strengthen the industry.  

During his visit to Nestlé’s dairy project site, Maiha urged stakeholders to use the facility as a training center for dairy management, emphasizing the need for skilled professionals in the livestock sector. 

“You will agree with me that today in the livestock sector, we have a serious gap in terms of capacity when it comes to managing dairy farms as well as feedlots,” he stated.

“This center will invariably partner with us in the hope of developing practical, hands-on experience for training the much-needed manpower for our dairy farmers.”  

While efforts are underway to boost livestock production, the ongoing threats of disease outbreaks and malnutrition highlight the urgent need for sustained intervention. 

Stakeholders emphasize that only through coordinated action and the adoption of modern livestock management practices can Nigeria achieve its goal of self-sufficiency in milk and meat production.