Korede Abdullah 
UYO, Nigeria – Tsetse fly surveillance has begun in Akwa Ibom State as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to control the disease vector and protect livestock from devastating infections.
The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development launches the surveillance exercise on Monday, targeting high-risk communities and cattle settlements across the state.
Receiving the surveillance team in Uyo on Monday, the ministry’s State Coordinator, Ikankeabasi Ukpong, says the programme will combine field surveillance with public awareness campaigns to educate residents about the dangers of tsetse fly infestation.
She reveals that Nigeria has identified about 12 species of tsetse flies, with Glossina palpalis dominating the South-South region because of its humid climate and extensive river systems.
“In this survey, we will intensify efforts to cover riverine areas like Itu, Mbo, and Oron Local Government Areas. We will also work on the cattle domain in Itam. With God on our side, we will have successful surveillance to curb tsetse fly infestation in Akwa Ibom,” Ukpong says.
The surveillance team will focus on riverine communities where environmental conditions favour the breeding and spread of the insects.
State Director of Veterinary Services in the Ministry of Agriculture, Teddy Essien, commends the Federal Government for launching the intervention and says Akwa Ibom will continue supporting livestock development initiatives.
“There is no doubt that this vision will further benefit the people of Akwa Ibom and have an impact on the state’s economy. Please, we also require feedback. Let us know what happened in the field, the location you went to and so on,” Essien says.
The surveillance exercise forms part of ongoing national efforts to reduce livestock diseases, improve animal health and strengthen agricultural productivity through early detection and vector control.
About the Author
Otamere Gladness 
