The Executive Governor of Katsina State, Dikko Umaru Radda, inaugurated the 2026 Annual Mass Livestock Vaccination Exercise at Shifdawa Fulani Village in Batagarawa Local Government Area. This statewide campaign targets three major infectious diseases: Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP), Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), and Peste-des-Petits Ruminants (PPR).
Governor Radda characterized this initiative as instrumental in protecting animal health and enhancing livestock productivity. He emphasized that vaccination is critical to preventing disease outbreaks and ensuring healthy, productive livestock. The Governor highlighted Katsina’s historical significance in animal husbandry and livestock trade, noting the region’s ancient heritage in production and commerce.
The vaccination campaign will encompass all 361 wards across 34 Local Government Areas over 18 days, comprising 12 days for PPR house-to-house vaccination and 6 days for CBPP and FMD coverage.
Governor Radda stressed that diseases like CBPP, FMD, and PPR create substantial economic losses and threaten food security. As a border state with significant cross-border livestock movement, he emphasized that this exercise remains both essential and timely for disease prevention.
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to veterinary services and commended development partners including IOM, UNDP, and Co-group for their support. He called upon livestock farmers, herders, traditional rulers, and security agencies to cooperate fully with vaccination teams.
Honourable Commissioner for Livestock Development Prof Ahmed Bakori Mohammed highlighted Katsina’s enduring legacy in livestock production and emphasized vaccination as an effective preventive measure. He urged farmers and herders to actively participate and promote community awareness.
Batagarawa Local Government Chairman Yahaya Lawal outlined efforts promoting farmer-herder coexistence and appealed for completion of IDP housing units.
The event was attended by the Chief of Staff, state executive council members, the Grand Khadi, local government chairmen, representatives of the Emirs of Katsina and Daura, and district heads.