By Soni Daniel
The Jigawa State Government has warned livestock traders, transporters and poultry sellers that those found guilty of animal cruelty may face prosecution, fines and other legal sanctions.
The Director of Livestock Extension in the state Ministry of Livestock Development, Mudansir Habib, gave the warning during a sensitisation visit to Shuwarin Weekly Market as part of activities marking Global Animal Welfare Week.
Habib said the government would take strict action against livestock dealers who violated animal welfare guidelines.
He explained that the campaign was designed to educate traders and transporters on proper feeding, hygiene, safe transportation and the humane handling of animals.
The director particularly cautioned transporters moving livestock from northern Nigeria to the southern part of the country against practices that subject animals to unnecessary suffering during transit.
He also warned poultry sellers against carrying birds upside down and engaging in other harmful handling practices, stressing the need for proper care and protection of animals.
Habib said the sensitisation exercise would be extended to livestock markets across the state to promote compliance with animal welfare standards.
He added that the government would intensify enforcement against traders and transporters who disregarded the guidelines.
Speaking during the exercise, the Chairman of the West African Rearers Association, Mustafa Andaza, welcomed the initiative, saying it would help livestock traders understand the importance of animal welfare.
Andaza said the campaign would discourage harmful practices and promote responsible animal handling across livestock markets.
The campaign, themed “Healthy Animals, Productive Livestock for a Prosperous Jigawa State,” is aimed at improving animal welfare, boosting livestock productivity and strengthening the livestock value chain.
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