The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), Anambra State Chapter, has reaffirmed its commitment to monitor and control zoonotic diseases, but lamented the absence of a functional veterinary diagnostic laboratory in the state.
The State Chairman of the association, Dr Victor Ughaerumba, made this known in a statement issued on Thursday in Awka ahead of the 2026 World Veterinary Day marked every April 25.
Ughaerumba said the lack of a standard diagnostic facility had continued to hamper effective detection and response to animal diseases with potential transmission to humans.
“As veterinarians, we are committed to monitoring and controlling zoonotic diseases, but the absence of a functional diagnostic laboratory in Anambra remains a major setback,” he said.
He identified diseases such as avian influenza, rabies, anthrax, tuberculosis and foot-and-mouth disease as serious threats to public health.
According to him, the health of animals is directly linked to human safety.
“When animals are sick, humans are not safe. Healthy animals mean healthy people and safe food translates to a stronger society,” he added.
The chairman explained that veterinarians play critical roles in diagnosing and treating animal diseases.
“They also prevent the spread of infections, inspecting meat in abattoirs and safeguarding livestock production for food security, ” he said.
He described the interconnectedness of animal, human and environmental health as the “One Health” approach.
According to him, the approach remained vital in disease prevention and control.
Ughaerumba, however, stressed that reliance on clinical diagnosis without laboratory confirmation could lead to inaccuracies.
“Samples often have to be transported to other states for proper testing.
“This causes delays in diagnosis and treatment, increases the spread of diseases and heightens risks to public health,” he said.
He called on government, the private sector and development partners to invest in functional veterinary diagnostic laboratories.
He also called for investment in modern abattoir facilities, disease surveillance systems and capacity building for veterinary professionals.
Ughaerumba also outlined activities lined up for the 2026 World Veterinary Day celebration in the state, including a sensitisation on the “Role of a Veterinarian in Society”.
He added that a dog show would be held at Obinnaemeka Solution Garden, Onitsha, on May 9.
This are efforts to promote awareness on animal health and welfare.
