Govt urged to establish Vet depts in LGAs

NIGERIAN Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), Anambra State Chapter, held its 2015 Anambra State Livestock Exposition, with theme “Chain Value Addition in Livestock Production”.
  Speaking at the event, which was held in Awka, the NVMA State Chairman, Dr Uchenabo D.O stated that the theme for this year was chosen so as to encourage diversification in the livestock sub-sector of the agricultural economy.
  He decried the fact that farmers in Nigeria often experience egg glut and destruction of harvested fishes due to deterioration.
  According to him, “powdered egg concentrates used in ice cream manufacturing are still being imported into the country. Fish flavor used in biscuit making and fish sauce, used in various food preparations are imported into the country by the Asians”.
  He appealed to the State government to establish a veterinary department in each of the 21 LGAs, since they are the first port of call on disease prevention and control especially for rural dwellers.
  In an address presented by Mr Mark Ezebialu, on behalf of the Anambra State Commissioner for Agriculture. Mr Afam Mbanefo, he stated that the importance of value addition in our agricultural produce is widely acknowledged. He added that the State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, being an agriculture-friendly governor is poised to assist and partner with only credible organizations on viable agriculture projects that will boost agriculture production and discourage waste.
  “In this regard, the government has continued to attract investors and co-operation of international donor agencies which in synergy with the State government provides the necessary enabling environment for agriculture through the funding of projects and programmes that foster food production and Job creation”, He stated.
  He added that soft loans and grants are provided to credible farmers to embark on meaningful agricultural development projects.
  He further stated that the State Government recently signed a memorandum of understanding with reputable indigenous companies, adding that it is on record that the Governor has attracted a lot of funds into the agricultural sector.
  A resource person, Dr Emeka Nwajiana who spoke on the topic “Avian Influenza Outbreaks: Prevention and Control”, said that the Avian Influenza otherwise known as bird flu, was first experienced in Nigeria, in 2006, and after stamping it out, it made a comeback in January 2015, adding that though it has been controlled, poultry farmers should be careful while handling their birds.
  He listed symptoms of bird flu to include; Cyanosis of the combs and wattles, shell-les and broken eggs, swollen head and face among others.
  Dr Nwajiana who is an Avian Influenza desk officer advised poultry farmers to report to directors of Veterinary Services whenever they notice any of these symptoms.
  Other speakers at the event include; Dr Eddy Muogbo, a livestock consultant, and Dr Chuka Ikeogu, who spoke on “Common Fishery Diseases, Production and Marketing Constraints”. She made a case for fish farmers, when she stated that fish farmers need water – test kits, as agriculture cannot be taken to the next level without technology.
  The Head of Department, fisheries and aquaculture at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka concluded by saying “government should establish marketing companies for livestock products to encourage farmers to expand their production and limit the discouraging activities of the middlemen”.
  Various companies displayed animal drugs at the occasion.