The Kwara State Government has distributed biosecurity materials to Poultry Farmers in the State.
The equipment, which comprised disinfectants, motorised sprayers, wheelbarrows, shovels, biosecurity kits and gloves among others, were aimed at preventing the spread of bird flu in the state.
Presenting the items, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry for Agriculture and Rural Development, Hajia Maryam Mohammed, said the devastating nature of the disease to poultry industry informed the state government on the need to provide poultry farmers with biosecurity materials.
Mohammed enjoined the beneficiaries to ensure proper use of the equipment.
In his remarks, the Director, Veterinary Services of the Ministry, Dr. Abdullateef Olugbon, charged the poultry farmers to redoubled their efforts on biosecurity network of their farm.
According to him, “bird flu has been detected in six states of the federation including our neighbouring states which testify to the significance of today’s programme, though it has not been officially confirmed in the state but that does not mean we don’t have it. Early last month, some samples were taken from reported cases around Eiyekorin axis in Asa Local Government Area, but the results came out negative.”
Olugbon urged poultry farmers to increase the level of biosecurity in their farms and ensure restrictions of movement within the farm’s vicinity with a view to preventing the farms against any form of contagious disease.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, the Chairman, Kwara State Poultry Farmers Association of Nigeria, Mr Akinwumi Richard appreciated the state government for being generous to the poultry industry and assured the present administration of the industry’s support to its policies and programmes .
-Punch