Vet experts call for genetic upgrade of livestock

The Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) has called for the genetic improvement of the country’s herd and increase intensification of livestock production at both large and small scale level. A communiqué issued at the end of the 56th Annual Congress of the association in Lokoja, Kogi State said that the livestock sector still remains a […]

The Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) has called for the genetic improvement of the country’s herd and increase intensification of livestock production at both large and small scale level.

A communiqué issued at the end of the 56th Annual Congress of the association in Lokoja, Kogi State said that the livestock sector still remains a pathway to wealth and out of poverty.

The communiqué made available to Daily Trust Saturday in Abuja, which was signed by the National President of the association, Professor Bello Muhammed Agaie, the Secretary General, Dr. Oladotun Ebenezer Fadipe and Dr. Daminabo Gloria, the publicity Secretary nevertheless affirmed its support for the federal government National Livestock Development Plan (NLPT).

The veterinary professionals in their statement however worried that the country’s agriculture was still on the decline as a result of many factors.

They listed some of the reasons to include neglect of rural infrastructure, inconsistent agricultural policies, difficult environment for agribusiness, corruption and disregard for rule of law in spite of the federal government’s to diversify the economy.

They also called on the veterinary faculties and colleges of the nation’s universities to partners with established veterinary entrepreneurs to impact entrepreneurship skills to students in order to address the entrepreneurial aspect of the profession.