By Victoria OJEME

The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) has called for the creation of Ministry of Animal Health and Production, as part of measures of stimulating livestock production and guaranteeing the success of the nation’s food security.

The NVMA made the call recently in a communiqué at the end of its 47th Annual Congress in Makurdi, in Benue State.

The document signed by the Chairman, Dr John Molokwu and Secretary, Dr Tunji Nasir, justifying the need for creation of a separate Ministry for Animal Health and production,  said the initiative would,  give special focus to livestock production and food security.

It also called for  urgent need for  establishment of well equipped centres for Animal Disease Control  manned by specialist veterinarians in order to curtail the threat of emerging and re-emerging diseases, as well as reposition the nation to respond promptly to disease challenges.

The communiqué further regretted  continued refusal of NAFDAC  to implement the Presidential directive for creation of the Directorate of Veterinary Medicines in the Agency, thereby compromising the quality and safety of veterinary drugs, biologicals and foods, especially those of animal origin.

Highpoints of recommendations include need for National and State Houses of Assembly to fast track actions on the review of obsolete veterinary and public health legislations which should be backed by effective enforcement.