The Veterinary Council of Nigeria has made a significant decision to shut down the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Benin, located in Edo State. This closure stems from the university’s failure to meet the required standards for running Veterinary Medicine programs. Dr. Aishatu Abubaka-Baju, who currently serves as an Assistant Inspector General of Police and President of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, confirmed this action during the ongoing 60th Annual Congress of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association in Jos, Plateau State. The decision to close the faculty means that the University of Benin will no longer be able to admit new students into its Veterinary Medicine program.
In her remarks, Dr. Abubaka-Baju emphasized the council’s commitment to enhancing veterinary medicine programs in Nigerian higher institutions, ensuring they meet the requisite standards for effective service delivery. Alongside the closure of the University of Benin’s program, Dr. Abubaka-Baju noted that the University of Abuja has received interim accreditation, with plans for the council to reassess the institution in two years to determine its adherence to necessary educational standards. This proactive stance underscores the Veterinary Council’s determination to elevate the quality of veterinary education across the country and ensure that future veterinarians are adequately trained.
During the opening ceremony of the annual congress, notable government officials, including Senator Aliyu Abdullahi, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food, and Dr. Chinyere Akujobi, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Livestock Development, addressed the importance of the veterinary sector. They reassured attendees that the Federal Government is committed to creating more business opportunities within veterinary and related fields. Their discussion highlighted the plan to utilize the full economic potential embedded within the veterinary sector, which is vital for the agricultural landscape of Nigeria and the livelihoods of many.
The officials expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, a strategic initiative aimed at boosting livestock production, productivity, and improving the welfare of millions who depend on livestock farming. They emphasized the critical need for collaboration among government entities, research institutions, and the private sector, suggesting that such partnerships would play a pivotal role in utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to improve veterinary service delivery. This forward-looking approach aims to foster innovation and pave the way for enhanced research and infrastructural development in the sector.
Dr. Moses Arokoyo, President of the Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association, also spoke at the congress, emphasizing the theme for the 2024 annual congress: “A Century of Veterinary Service Delivery in Nigeria: Opportunities for Artificial Intelligence in National Food Security.” His remarks highlighted the significance of veterinary services in shaping various economic sectors. He encouraged attendees to explore the innovations provided by AI and leverage them to address food security challenges within the nation, indicating that discussions and collaborations at the congress could lead to effective ways to maximize Nigeria’s livestock resources.
In summary, the decision to shut down the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Benin has triggered a broader conversation about improving veterinary education standards in Nigeria. The ongoing efforts by the Veterinary Council, in collaboration with government stakeholders, aim to enhance veterinary services and ultimately ensure food security through better livestock management. As the veterinary community comes together to discuss the role of technology and innovation, particularly AI, in the sector, there is hope that these initiatives will lead to transformative advancements in veterinary practice and contribute to the economic potential of Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
