From Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
More than 500 cattle and goats in various locations across Calabar, including the NNPC Depot, Aka Effa Roundabout and Garment Factory, have had blood samples collected by veterinary doctors for laboratory analysis.
Alhaji Nasiru Baba Gombe, Special Assistant to the Governor on Livestock Ranching, Cross River State, disclosed this to a Triumph correspondent on Tuesday.
Alhaji Gombe said the exercise was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen livestock health and disease surveillance in Cross River State.
He said, “In line with ongoing efforts to strengthen livestock health and disease surveillance in Cross River State, the exercise began today at NNPC Depot, Aka Effa Roundabout, Garment Factory in Calabar Municipality, and Calabar South, before proceeding to the Central and Northern parts of the state.”
Gombe, alongside veterinary doctors, also visited a cattle farm where blood samples were collected from animals for laboratory analysis.
He explained that the exercise was aimed at identifying the diseases affecting the animals and understanding the pathogens circulating within the cattle population.
“This is particularly important in addressing transboundary and cross-border livestock diseases that can spread through the movement of animals across borders,” he said.
According to him, the laboratory findings will provide vital scientific data to support the development and use of vaccines appropriately matched to the diseases affecting the cattle.
He added that the findings would help improve disease prevention, animal health and livestock productivity.
During the exercise, Alhaji Nasiru Baba Gombe reaffirmed the commitment of the administration of Governor Prince Bassey Edet Otu and the Ministry of Livestock to supporting modern livestock management, effective disease control and sustainable ranching development.
He said the efforts were aimed at creating a safer and more productive livestock sector in Cross River State.
