FG Supports Lagos to Curb African Swine Fever

The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has provided technical and operational support to Lagos State following the outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF), reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding animal health, strengthening national biosecurity, and protecting livelihoods within the livestock sector.

In response to the outbreak, the Ministry deployed the National Programme Coordinator (NPC) for African Swine Fever, Dr. Yakubu Yanet Ago, to Lagos State from 25th to 30th January, 2026 to lead containment and control efforts. This intervention formed part of coordinated measures aimed at curbing further spread of the disease and minimising economic losses to pig farmers.

Upon arrival, Dr. Ago was received by the Director of Veterinary Services, Lagos State, Dr. Rasheed Macaulay, who led him to the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, Mr. Emmanuel Audu, for high-level consultations on response strategies and intergovernmental collaboration.

As part of the mission, Dr. Ago delivered disinfection chemicals to affected areas and supervised the collection of samples for laboratory confirmation at the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI). He also conducted forward and backward tracing to determine the source and extent of the outbreak, while providing technical guidance on strengthened biosecurity protocols.

In addition, the National Programme Coordinator engaged pig farmers and key stakeholders through sensitisation sessions focused on early detection, prompt reporting, and preventive measures against ASF. To reinforce risk communication and behavioural change, Social Behaviour Change Communication (SBCC) materials were distributed across the pig value chain to promote best practices and improve compliance with disease control measures.

The Permanent Secretary, Mr. Audu, expressed appreciation to the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, for the timely federal intervention and sustained support to Lagos State. 

He further requested continued assistance to strengthen pig production infrastructure, including the siting of an abattoir near the Pig Farm Estate, installation of an incinerator within the estate, and perimeter fencing to enhance biosecurity and disease control.

Oghenekevwe Uchechukwu
Head, Press and Public Relations 
9th February 2026