Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has launched the 2026 Annual Mass Livestock Vaccination Exercise in Katsina State to combat major animal diseases and improve livestock productivity.
Hikaya Newspaper reports that the flag-off ceremony took place at Shifdawa Fulani Village in Batagarawa Local Government Area, marking the start of a statewide vaccination campaign against Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP), Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), and Peste-des-Petits Ruminants (PPR), which affect cattle, sheep, and goats.
Speaking at the event, Governor Radda described the exercise as a strategic effort to protect animal health, boost livestock production, and strengthen public health. He noted that livestock farming remains one of the key pillars of the Katsina State economy.
The governor said vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent disease outbreaks and ensure healthy and productive animals. He warned that diseases such as CBPP, FMD, and PPR continue to cause livestock deaths, reduce productivity, and lead to significant economic losses for farmers and herders.
Radda also highlighted Katsina’s long history in livestock production and trade, recalling that the famous “Morocco leather,” which gained recognition across North Africa and Europe, originated from the region. He added that the state’s border location and the movement of livestock from neighboring countries make disease prevention especially important.
According to the governor, the vaccination campaign will cover all 361 wards in the state’s 34 local government areas. He explained that the exercise will last for 18 days, including 12 days of house-to-house vaccination for PPR and six days of statewide vaccination against CBPP and FMD.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving veterinary services, livestock development, and agricultural systems in line with international standards. He also commended development partners, including the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and Co-group, for supporting the livestock sector.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Livestock Development, Prof. Ahmed Bakori Mohammed, said livestock rearing remains a way of life for many families in Katsina State. He stressed that regular vaccination is essential to controlling infectious diseases, improving animal productivity, and strengthening food security.
The commissioner urged livestock owners, herders, and farmers to participate actively in the exercise and encourage others to do the same. He said the campaign would help improve disease resistance, protect livelihoods, and support economic growth in rural communities.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Batagarawa Local Government Area, Yahaya Lawal, highlighted efforts to promote peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders. He further appealed for the completion of housing units for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and the speedy execution of ongoing housing projects in the area.