Abuja, Nigeria — The Federal Government has inaugurated a state-of-the-art solar-powered National Strategic Vaccine Cold Storage Facility, capable of holding 40 million doses, to bolster the fight against livestock diseases and enhance food security.
The facility, located at the Sheda Science and Technology Complex, Gwagwalada, Abuja, was officially commissioned by the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha. Speaking at the event, Maiha emphasized that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at improving livestock health and productivity.
“For years, inadequate vaccine storage has hindered our efforts to control livestock diseases. This world-class facility bridges that gap by ensuring efficient vaccine preservation and nationwide distribution,” Maiha stated.
A Milestone for Livestock Health
Equipped with a fully solar-powered system, the facility guarantees uninterrupted vaccine storage, even in remote regions. This makes it a critical tool in combating enzootic diseases, transboundary outbreaks, and zoonotic threats, which pose risks to both livestock and human populations.
“With 40 million doses now secured, Nigeria is better positioned to protect its livestock, safeguard farmers’ investments, and reinforce national food security,” Maiha added.
Global Backing and National Impact
The project was developed with backing from the World Bank-supported Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES). Sanusi Abubakar, National Project Coordinator, noted that the facility would significantly enhance vaccine quality control, traceability, and emergency response mechanisms.
Co-Chairman of the Presidential Livestock Reforms Committee, Professor Attahiru Jega, described the facility as a “game-changer” for Nigeria’s livestock industry. He urged stakeholders to ensure its proper management and long-term sustainability.
“This facility will revolutionize disease prevention in Nigeria’s livestock sector. Stakeholders must collaborate to maintain it for a lasting impact,” Jega stated.
With its advanced solar-powered system and large storage capacity, the facility marks a major leap forward in Nigeria’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and food security, reinforcing efforts to modernize the livestock industry.
By Enoch Odesola | February 16, 2025
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