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FAO's Emergency Centre for Transboundary Animal Diseases Fosters Collaboration in Abuja Workshop

Abuja, Nigeria – The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Emergency Centre for Transboundary Animal Diseases (ECTAD) is hosting its annual regional workshop for the in-service applied veterinary epidemiology training program (ISAVET) in West and Central Africa. The event, held in Abuja from August 21st to 23rd, 2024, has brought together key figures in the veterinary and animal health sectors to discuss pressing challenges and foster collaboration.   


President of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria Calls for Collaborative Action

A notable highlight of the workshop was the address by AIG Aishatu Abubakar Baju, mni, the President of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria. She emphasized the urgent need for increased collaboration among stakeholders to effectively tackle the region's complex animal health challenges. Her call underscores the importance of a unified approach to prevent and control transboundary animal diseases, which pose a significant threat to both livestock and human health.

Key Figures in Attendance

The workshop has attracted a distinguished gathering of professionals, including:

  • Dr. Otto Muhinda, FAO ECTAD team lead
  • Professor Lami Lombin, National Coordinator of the ISAVET programme
  • Dr. Columba Vakuru, Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria
  • Dr. Maryam Muhammed, Executive Director of The National Research Institute, Vom
  • Dr. Moses Arokoyo, President of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association

Their presence reflects the commitment of various organizations and institutions to strengthening veterinary epidemiology capacity in the region.

Workshop Focus

The ISAVET program aims to enhance the skills of field veterinarians in disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, and response. The workshop provides a platform for participants to share knowledge, learn from experts, and network with colleagues from across West and Central Africa. Topics covered include emerging disease threats, data analysis, risk assessment, and communication strategies.

Conclusion

The FAO ECTAD's regional workshop in Abuja serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of collaboration in safeguarding animal and human health. By bringing together key stakeholders and providing a platform for knowledge exchange, the event contributes to the ongoing efforts to strengthen veterinary epidemiology capacity and address the complex challenges posed by transboundary animal diseases in West and Central Africa. 

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