The Federal Government has announced plans to establish functional veterinary hospitals in all 774 local government areas across the country as part of efforts to strengthen livestock production and improve animal health.

The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Muktar-Maiha, disclosed this in Ado-Ekiti while commissioning a model veterinary hospital constructed by the Ekiti State Government under the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project.

Maiha said the administration of President Bola Tinubu recognised the importance of productivity and had therefore prioritised the development of the livestock sector as a key component of the nation’s economic growth.

He described the newly commissioned facility as a modern veterinary hospital equipped with advanced medical equipment capable of handling complex animal health challenges, including surgical operations.

According to him, the availability of such facilities would reduce animal mortality by ensuring that sick animals receive proper medical attention rather than being left to die from treatable conditions.

The minister also stressed the need for regular training and capacity development for veterinary personnel to ensure effective utilisation of the facility and delivery of quality services.

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ekiti State Ministry of Agriculture, Dr Babatope Ojo, said access to modern veterinary services would help reduce animal deaths and improve livestock productivity across the state.

He urged stakeholders in the livestock industry to take ownership of the facility and maximise its benefits for improved production.

The State Project Coordinator of L-PRES in Ekiti, Yinka Adedipe, commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his commitment to the successful completion of the project.

Similarly, the National Coordinator of L-PRES, Dr Sanusi Abubakar, described Ekiti as one of the pioneer states to benefit from the establishment of modern veterinary hospitals, adding that the initiative would soon be extended to other states.

He explained that the facility was established to bring veterinary services closer to livestock farmers and other residents.Representing Governor Oyebanji, the Chief of Staff, Niyi Adebayo, said the L-PRES project had significantly strengthened agricultural development, particularly in the livestock subsector.

He added that the state government was working towards positioning Ekiti as a major livestock production hub to stimulate economic growth and create more opportunities in the agricultural sector.

The National Vice President of the Sheep and Goat Development Association, Alhaji Bello Elias, and the Chairman of the Pig Farmers Association in Ekiti State, Pastor Albert Aribisin, appreciated both the federal and state governments for the initiative.

After commissioning the facility, the minister visited Ikun Dairy Farm, the ultramodern abattoir and Commercial Cattle Market along the EKSU-Iworoko Road in Ado-Ekiti, the Livestock Development Centre at Erifun, Ado-Ekiti, and the Poultry Hub in Emure-Ekiti.