LAGOS GOVT SET TO VACCINATE OVER 2000 DOGS, CATS IN FREE ANTI-RABIES VACCINATION EXERCISE
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The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, has declared its intention to vaccinate over 2,000 dogs and cats to curb the menace of zoonotic diseases caused by bites from infected animals.
This was disclosed during the Year 2025 Anti-rabies Vaccination Exercise held at Igbogbo Bayeku Local Council Development Area, Ikorodu.
Speaking at the event, the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, explained that many pet owners often find it difficult to vaccinate their pets due to cost implications and the fear of falling into the hands of quack veterinary doctors. She noted that the free vaccination initiative was introduced to address these concerns and reduce the risk of rabies transmission.
The Honourable Commissioner, who was represented by the Director of the Fisheries Department, Ms. Daisi Osunkoya, assured that the administration of Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu will continue to prioritise the health and safety of Lagosians, leaving no stone unturned in combating preventable diseases.
She disclosed that since the commencement of the exercise in 2021, over 9,000 animals have been vaccinated, adding that the Ministry is expecting a larger turnout for this year’s exercise.
Olusanya, therefore, urged pet and animal owners to take advantage of the free vaccination exercise to protect their pets and safeguard their communities from the dangers of rabies. She further explained that the exercise will run for four weeks across all Lagos State Veterinary Clinics.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Igbogbo Bayeku Local Council Development Area, Honourable Hammed Aroyewun, commended the State Government for choosing the Council as the host of the programme.
The Chairman, who was represented by his Vice Chairman, Barrister Ade Ayeni, described the initiative as a proactive measure towards building healthier and safer communities.
He assured that the Council would provide full support in mobilising residents and pet owners to participate in the exercise, stressing that the programme aligns with the Council’s vision of promoting a disease-free society.
According to him, the active involvement of residents will not only prevent the spread of rabies but also sustain the government’s efforts in protecting public health.
Speaking on the theme “Prevalence of Rabies in the State and Action Plan,” the Medical Director of Ikorodu General Hospital, Dr. Taiwo Hassan, emphasised that vaccination remains the most effective strategy for eradicating rabies. He explained that the ongoing vaccination campaign, sustained over the past two years, reflects the State Government’s commitment to protecting citizens from zoonotic diseases
The Medical Director, who was represented by Director of Clinical Matters, Dr. Kareem Lukman, highlighted other preventive measures, including maintaining a safe distance from suspected infected animals, early reporting of dog bites, and continuous public enlightenment on rabies prevention, particularly among children who are most vulnerable to the disease.
He added that rabies is a preventable but deadly disease if not addressed on time, hence the importance of widespread sensitisation and collaboration with community leaders. Dr. Hassan stressed that proactive education and awareness, coupled with regular vaccination, remain key to achieving a rabies-free Lagos.
The event had in attendance the Olubeshe of Ibeshe Kingdom, Oba Richard Abayomi Ogunsanya, who urged members of the Community Development Association (CDAs), Baales, and Chiefs to ensure that information about the exercise reaches every member of the community to keep them free from rabies.
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