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The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has extended support to pig farmers affected by the African swine fever (ASF) outbreak in Plateau State, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening disease containment through the provision of disinfectants, biosecurity materials and other essential supplies. As part of the intervention, a federal delegation conducted surveillance visits to affected pig farms across Bassa, Jos South and Jos North local government areas, including a commercial farm that has remained free of the disease. The team also visited key veterinary and research institutions to reinforce collaboration on disease diagnosis, surveillance and control.
The visit formed part of the Federal Government’s broader efforts to assess the scale of the outbreak, strengthen partnerships with relevant stakeholders and coordinate an effective response in line with its livestock development agenda. Following the field assessments, the federal response team was directed to intensify support for Plateau State by distributing biosecurity materials and collecting additional samples for laboratory analysis to support ongoing surveillance and disease control measures.
The Ministry noted that compensation schemes for ASF-affected pig farmers remain uncommon across Africa, with only a few countries currently providing such support. It also emphasised that ASF is one of Nigeria’s priority transboundary animal diseases and highlighted that annual budgetary provisions are made for the prevention and control of seven major transboundary animal diseases.
Veterinary and research institutions commended the prompt intervention and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting disease surveillance, veterinary extension services and public awareness initiatives. Meanwhile, affected pig farmers welcomed the Government’s assistance and appealed for further support through biosecurity training, subsidised disinfectants and starter packs to strengthen disease prevention and improve the resilience of pig farms.
August 01, 2026/Nigeria-Plateau State/
https://fmino.gov.ng/
