The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) has urged the government at all levels to ensure the safety of animals, both in zoos and wildlife, affected by the recent flood in Borno State.
In a statement, the President of NVMA, Dr. Moses Arokoyo, lamented that 80 percent of the animals in the Borno zoo were impacted by the flood, while attention has been focused solely on humans.
The NVMA expressed concern that if the animals are not properly cared for, it could lead to an outbreak of zoonotic diseases.
“According to reports, the heavy rains have not only displaced thousands of residents but have also impacted local wildlife and zoo animals in ways that demand urgent attention and Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) is rallying her expertise, resources to support both human and animal victims of this natural disaster.
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“The flood in Borno has wreaked havoc across communities, displacing families and causing widespread damage to properties and livelihoods.
“Among those affected are animals, particularly those in local zoos and wildlife safety zones, where their living conditions have been severely compromised, reports state that 80% of the animals in the Zoo have been victims of the flood and somany are now in distress, facing the risk of disease, injury, and malnutrition due to the flooding of their habitats”, the statement said.
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“This is where our dual function responsibility as Veterinarians comes into play in the spirit of One-Health.
“Considering this emergency, Our Veterinarians in Borno state have been charged to be on the ground in collaboration with local caretakers to provide all necessary assistance and expertise to ensure safe keeping of our animals and the human populace.
“we hope to ensure that animals are immediately rescued from residential areas, receive emergency medical attention and a temporary shelter.
“We are open to working hand in hand with state and federal governments and non-governmental organizations to provide relief efforts and while we focus on the animal welfare, we are also fully committed to supporting human healthcare initiatives, recognizing that the health of our communities is intricately linked to the health of animals in our environment.
“Beyond the immediate response, this disaster highlights the need for greater preparedness and preventive measures, we advocate for stronger disaster management policies that include clear protocols for animal welfare, Veterinarians ave a role to play in shaping these policies and ensuring that animals are not forgotten in times of crisis.
“It has become highly critical with the global climate change for each state to have a Rapid response team inclusive of Veterinarians for such unexpected occurrences for the overall safety of Nigerian lives.
“The NVMA remains committed to alleviating the suffering caused by this tragedy and ensuring that both humans and animals receive the care they desperately need.
“Indeed, we stand in solidarity with the people and animals of Borno State”, the statement added.
