Veterinary Council of Nigeria

Paris, 28 May 2024 – During its 91st General Session, the World Organisation for Animal Health elects its new Director General, Dr Emmanuelle Soubeyran, for a 5-year mandate (2024-2029).   Today marks another significant milestone in the World Organisation for Animal Health’s (WOAH) unwavering commitment to global animal health as the Organisation announces the election of its new Director General.  Through a secret ballot vote, following the “one country, one vote” rule, WOAH Delegates chose Dr Soubeyran, to lead the Organisation into its next chapter. She therefore becomes WOAH’s 8th Director General. Under Soubeyran’s leadership, the Organisation will remain dedicated to advancing animal health governance, promoting a safer, healthier future for both animals and humans.  Dr Soubeyran’s election brings an end to predecessor Dr Monique Eloit’s successful 8-year tenure at the    Organisation. Dr Eloit leaves a significant legacy, having enhanced global...

The President of the Veterinary Council, AIG Aishatu Abubakar Baju, mni, joined world leaders and dignitaries this week in Paris, France, for the 100th-anniversary celebration of the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). The prestigious event at the Maison de la Chimie marked a century of WOAH's dedication to safeguarding animal health and promoting global collaboration in veterinary medicine. The President, alongside representatives from 183 member countries, witnessed a historic gathering that acknowledged WOAH's crucial role in protecting animal welfare and ensuring the safety of the international animal trade. "WOAH's legacy is one of remarkable progress," stated President Aishatu. "From its beginnings in combating rinderpest to its ongoing efforts against zoonotic diseases and antimicrobial resistance, the organization has demonstrably improved the lives of animals worldwide." The President highlighted the importance of WOAH's focus on ...

The Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja buzzed with excitement on May 23rd, 2024, as the African Iconic Women Recognition Awards (AIWRA) ceremony unfolded. This prestigious event celebrates women who have shattered glass ceilings, championed positive change, and left an indelible mark on Africa. This year, the esteemed title of "Evergreen Female Security Person of the Year" went to the remarkable president of the Veterinary Council, AIG Ashatu Abubakar Baju, mni. The AIWRA recognizes her outstanding contributions to the Nigeria Police, veterinary medicine, and her unwavering commitment to animal safety and security generally. The AIWRA celebrates women like the Veterinary Council president who embodies strength, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence. These women are pioneers who inspire future generations to break barriers and achieve their full potential. Through her dedication and leadership, the president has undoubtedly made significant strides in safeguarding ...

  Ikeja, Lagos – May 22, 2024 – The Radisson Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos, played host to a momentous event today as SmartDVM, a revolutionary veterinary practice management software solution, was unveiled. The event gained even greater significance with an address delivered by the President of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN), AIG Aishatu Abubakar Baju, mni. President Baju’s speech highlighted the Veterinary Council’s dedication to equipping the veterinary community with cutting-edge technologies. She outlined the Council’s recent strides in this area, including the launch of the Veterinary Tracking Application, the digitization of veterinary licenses and cards, the introduction of the veterinary seal, and the creation of a national geo-mapping system for veterinary practice locations. These initiatives, President Baju emphasized, demonstrate the Council’s commitment to modernization and improved animal healthcare delivery. President Baju further expressed the Veterinary Counci...

The Veterinary Council of Nigeria is deeply saddened by the confirmation of Dr. Japheth Nuhu Pata's (DVM(UDUS)) death. Dr. Pata, who was initially missing after taking a Bolt ride from Kagani to Jabi (Abuja) on May 6th, 2024, was tragically murdered. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Dr. Pata's family during this incredibly difficult time. Words cannot express the profound sense of loss we share.  Dr. Pata's dedication and passion for veterinary medicine will be deeply missed. Standing with the Family and Seeking Justice The President of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, AIG Aishatu Abubakar Baju, mni, who has been working with the authorities to locate Dr. Pata and investigate his disappearance said: The shocking news of the death of Dr. Pata is indeed very sad😭😭 May God grant him eternal rest. While mourning his death, I want to assure the veterinary community that we will make sure the perpetrators of this heinous act are brought to book and he gets justice.  May hi...

The Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN) expresses deep concern following the sudden deaths of 20 horses at the Jos Polo Club in Plateau State. Emergency Meeting and Investigation On learning of this incident, Dr. Aishatu Abubakar, mni, President of the VCN, immediately convened an emergency council board meeting on May 4, 2024. During the meeting, the VCN: Received a preliminary report from Professor P.H. Bamaiyi, Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Jos. Directed the Chairman of the Investigation Committee to expedite their investigation and bring any responsible parties to justice. Preliminary Findings The preliminary report suggests the incident occurred on Sunday, April 28, 2024, at the Jos Polo Club. A stable of 36 Sudanese horses, valued between 2-3 million naira each, exhibited acute, progressive neurological signs. The report indicates: Initial deaths of four horses occurred within 48 hours of oral administration of a high dosage of ivermectin. ...

  The Federal University of Agriculture, Zuru (FUAZ) in Kebbi State welcomed a Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN) team on Monday, May 6th, 2024, for an accreditation visit. The team, headed by Prof. Matthew Adamu, arrived to assess the Pre-Clinical stage of the university's College of Veterinary Medicine. Accompanying Prof. Adamu was the President of the VCN, AIG Aishatu Abubakar Baju (mni). The Vice-Chancellor of FUA zul, Prof. M.I. Ahmed, received the team with gracious hospitality. The VCN's accreditation process is crucial for ensuring the quality of veterinary education offered in Nigeria. A successful accreditation of the Pre-Clinical stage will be a significant milestone for FUA Zuru's College of Veterinary Medicine, paving the way for the training of qualified veterinarians in the country. This visit highlights FUA Zuru's commitment to providing a high standard of veterinary education and contributing to Nigeria's veterinary healthcare sector. The outcome o...