The National President of the Nigerian Veterinary Association, Dr Moses Arokoya, has described the fatalities associated with rabies (dog bites) as alarming, calling on government at all levels to intensify awareness on the viral disease.
Dr Arokoya made the remark on Tuesday when he led national officials of the Association on a courtesy visit to Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya at the Government House, Gombe.
The officials are in the state to mark World Rabies Day with the theme: “Act Now: You, Me & Community.”
He explained that Gombe State was chosen for this year’s commemoration due to the surge in reported cases of dog bites. According to him, in the last four years, the state recorded 580 cases, resulting in four deaths.
Rabies, he noted, is a viral disease with no cure, responsible for about 59,000 deaths globally each year. While survival chances for dog-bite victims are slim, Arokoya stressed that prevention is possible through mass sensitisation and routine dog vaccination campaigns.
“The theme of this year’s commemoration underscores the need for collective collaboration to address the growing health challenge,” he said.
He also commended Governor Inuwa Yahaya for his “visible strides in livestock development, agriculture, and other sectors,” adding that the Association was presenting him with an award in recognition of these achievements.
Responding, Governor Yahaya—represented by the Secretary to Government of Gombe State, Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, expressed appreciation to the association for choosing Gombe as host.
Prof. Njodi described the 580 reported dog-bite cases in the state as unacceptable, assuring that government would spare no effort in addressing the challenge.
“The marking of World Rabies Day in Gombe is both a wake-up call and a reminder of the serious health implications associated with rabies. We will deploy resources to stamp out the disease,” he said.
He urged residents, especially dog owners, to ensure routine vaccination of their pets as a preventive measure.
On the association’s requests for the employment of more veterinary doctors and sponsorship of members to the upcoming national conference, Prof. Njodi assured that government would give due consideration.
JD, SGS office
