The Federal Government has handed over newly constructed Veterinary Primary Health Centres to the governments of Lagos State and Ogun State as part of efforts to strengthen animal healthcare delivery and boost livestock productivity across the country.
The projects, executed through the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, were formally handed over in Epe, Lagos, on May 13, and earlier in Ijebu Igbo, Ogun State, on May 5.
This was contained in a statement on Saturday, by Henrietta Okokon, Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations.
The initiative forms part of the Federal Government’s plan to establish 774 Veterinary Primary Health Centres across all local government areas nationwide.
Speaking during the handover ceremony in Epe, the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, represented by the Director of Animal Health and Reproductive Services, Dr. Alao Mitchell, said the project was designed to bring animal healthcare services closer to livestock farmers and improve disease surveillance, prevention and control.
He noted that the centres would strengthen veterinary service delivery, enhance livestock production and contribute to national food security, while also improving rural livelihoods.
Maiha commended the support of Hon. Olawale Raji in facilitating the successful completion of the Epe project.
The centres are equipped with consultation and treatment rooms, laboratories, administrative offices, storage facilities, water supply, electricity and perimeter fencing to support effective veterinary healthcare delivery.
Officials of both state governments received the facilities through their respective commissioners for agriculture, with the Ogun State handover conducted through the Assistant Director of Veterinary Services.
The ceremonies were attended by government officials, veterinary professionals, traditional rulers, community representatives, livestock stakeholders and members of the media from both states.