The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) has issued a strong warning over the growing danger posed by zoonotic diseases, revealing that such infections account for about 2.7 million deaths globally every year. The association made this known during a press conference in Jalingo, Taraba State, as part of its 62nd Annual Congress and Annual General Meeting (AGM) themed “Animal Health, Food Safety and Security: Ensuring a Healthy and Productive Nigeria.”

Addressing the media, the NVMA National President, Dr. Moses Arokoya, stated that around 65% of human infections originate from animals, while 75% of emerging diseases are zoonotic. He emphasized that these diseases represent one of the most serious global health threats of modern times.

“Zoonotic diseases have become an increasingly important global health concern,” Dr. Arokoya said, noting that the issue demands urgent attention. He also expressed alarm over the rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), describing it as a “looming global crisis” that could result in 39 million deaths annually by 2050 if unchecked.

The association lamented the poor state of abattoirs across Nigeria and the shortage of veterinarians in many local government areas, stressing that this situation endangers public health and food safety. “We cannot boldly say that every local government in Nigeria has a veterinarian. Their absence poses a major risk to food safety and disease control,” Arokoya warned.

NVMA urged the federal government to declare a state of emergency on abattoir operations and to strengthen surveillance systems that ensure meat hygiene and public health protection. The four-day Congress, which continues in Taraba, is expected to host top dignitaries, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, governors, and other stakeholders.