Mirian Gom 
OSUN, Nigeria – The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), Osun State chapter, has raised alarm over the lack of pet data in Nigeria, warning that it undermines effective animal healthcare and rabies control.
Speaking at a symposium marking World Rabies Day on Wednesday, NVMA Osun Chairman, Dr Oluseyi Kolawole, called for stronger policies to ensure pet registration and licensing.
“If we abide by existing policies, we can generate data that supports prevention and planning. Prevention is better, cheaper, and safer than cure,” Kolawole said.
Director of Veterinary Services, Osun Ministry of Agriculture, Dr Abosede Olatokun, stressed that licensing every pet would help track vaccinations and control diseases.
This year’s World Rabies Day theme, “Act now, you, me and community,” highlighted the urgent need for awareness. Kolawole described rabies as the world’s deadliest disease, killing one person every nine minutes.
“Shockingly, awareness remains low—even among educated Nigerians. People must act now because human health depends on protecting animal health,” he added.
World Rabies Day, endorsed by WHO, OIE, PAHO and CDC, aims to promote vaccination, education, and advocacy to reduce rabies deaths.
NVMA urged Nigerians to vaccinate pets, reduce stray dog populations, and spread awareness across homes, schools, and religious centres.
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