Veterinary Diagnostic Services for the Future: Nigeria’s Pathway to Progress

Abstract

The relevance of effective and efficient veterinary diagnostic services cannot be over emphasized in animal welfare and public health, as well as in food safety. Some of the major functions served by accurate and prompt diagnosis of animal diseases include the prevention of exotic livestock diseases from spreading into the country; control and/or eradication of endemic diseases; the assurance of standard pre-import/export testing which conforms to World Trade Organization (WTO) requirements; and the promotion of public health and food safety. This review examines the current state of veterinary diagnostics in Nigeria, including existing capabilities, constraints, opportunities and future potentials. A vision for the improvement of Nigerian veterinary services over the next twenty-five years is also briefly outlined, as well as recommendations aimed atshifting the current status quo towards global best practices.