By Rasheeda Hamidu
The Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN) has said stronger veterinary regulation is essential to improving food security, protecting public health and supporting Nigeria’s economic diversification through a more productive livestock sector.
The council made the submission in a statement published by the Voice of Nigeria on Sunday, highlighting the role of veterinary regulation in national development.
According to the VCN, the council regulates veterinary education, registers qualified veterinary surgeons, licenses veterinary premises and enforces ethical professional practice under the Veterinary Surgeons Act, CAP V3, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 (as amended).
The council said effective veterinary regulation helps improve livestock productivity, which supports farmers’ incomes and strengthens national food security.
It noted that regulating veterinary practice also reduces the risk of zoonotic diseases such as rabies, avian influenza, anthrax and brucellosis through disease surveillance and preventive animal healthcare.
According to the VCN, compliance with veterinary standards improves the safety of meat, milk, eggs and other animal products while enhancing Nigeria’s access to regional and international agricultural markets.
The council further stated that continuous professional development equips veterinary practitioners with modern disease-control strategies, emerging technologies and international best practices.
NatureNews notes that healthy livestock systems contribute to climate-resilient agriculture by improving resource efficiency, reducing production losses and strengthening sustainable food systems.
NatureNews reports that stronger veterinary regulation remains critical to safeguarding animal health, protecting public health and advancing sustainable agricultural development in Nigeria.
