In response to the growing threat of African swine fever, Ekiti State’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, has issued an urgent advisory for pig farmers to implement stringent safety measures.
Boluwade warned that the highly contagious virus could devastate pig populations, potentially derailing the state’s efforts to enhance food security and stabilize the livelihoods of pig farmers.
In Ado-Ekiti, the commissioner outlined crucial biosecurity measures for pig farms, including heightened sanitation practices, limiting farm access, and stepping up the nutritional plane to boost pig immunity.
“Proactive steps are essential,” Boluwade stated. “Our goal is to protect pig farms from devastating losses and ensure that the livelihoods of pig farmers remain secure.”
Further recommendations include installing perimeter fencing, avoiding reuse of feed bags, and encouraging farmers to prioritize early processing of mature pigs to mitigate risk.
Boluwade also urged farm workers and attendants to maintain strict hygiene protocols and reduce external farm visits.
The advisory highlights Ekiti’s commitment under Governor Biodun Oyebanji to bolster food security.
“Protecting livestock health is crucial to reducing hunger and supporting the state’s agricultural economy,” Boluwade emphasized.
