By Brenda Agba
The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has inaugurated a task force on the prevention and control of Anthrax disease in the state.
Speaking during the inauguration which was held at the Benue State Government House, Makurdi on Monday, the governor charged members of the task force to do everything they can to prevent the disease from entering the state.
The governor who described the fatal health implications the Anthrax disease poses to both humans and animals, as attested to by the World Health Organization (WHO), urged the members of the task force to ensure the effective sensitization of members of the public on symptoms and necessary actions, and to also identify, isolate and institute immediate actions in suspected animals, humans and or the environment.
He equally charged the committee to ensure the vaccination of all cattle, sheep, goats and pigs in the the state; advice appropriate authorities on the control and preventive measures of the disease; ensure strict monitoring of the state’s entry points for all livestock as well as to clear and issue right of passage on vehicles under inspection and collection of user/hazard fees for the state government.
He promised the task force of the state government’s readiness to provide necessary encouragement and logistics support to enable them succeed in their task.
Responding on behalf of other members, the Chairman of the Task Force on the Prevention and Control of Anthrax Disease in the state, Dr Edward Amali, assured the governor of the team’s proactiveness, with a promise to do their best at supporting the government in this regard.
Other members of the task force committee are: Dr. Ediga Achegbulu, Dr. Terungwa Ikye-Tor, Gabriel Sule, Dr. Joshua Abuku, Dr Emmanuel Atser, Dr. Gabriel Amase, Dr Igbabul Shembe Agela, Dr. Chile Tersoo, Dr. Tughgba Terzungwe, Dr. Nguavese Akange Eleye, Dr. Mike Tion, Dr. Kenneth Bem Iortyom as well as Dr. David Shehu and Dr. Ephraim Boya.
The members of the committee cut across the Benue State Ministries of Agriculture and Natural Resources; Health and Human Services; University of Agriculture, Federal Ministry of Agriculture as well as the Nigerian Police Force.
Recall that Anthrax disease, said to be contracted through infected animals or contaminated animal products, was first reported at a farm in Niger State, near the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, on July 17, 2023.
