A pig farmer in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, has warned that inadequate supplies of veterinary vaccines and other essential inputs continue to threaten piggery investments and food security. African swine fever remains a major concern for pig farmers, as outbreaks can wipe out entire herds, resulting in substantial financial losses and forcing farmers to rebuild their businesses from scratch.
The farm, established in 2009 with 15 pregnant pigs and an initial investment of approximately ₦5 million, suffered a devastating swine fever outbreak in 2014 that resulted in the loss of its entire pig stock. The experience prompted the adoption of stricter biosecurity and preventive measures to reduce the risk of future outbreaks. Since then, the business has expandeded and employs 21 workers directly, and also produces some of its own animal feed.
However, rising feed costs, limited access to finance, unreliable electricity and inadequate veterinary services continue to increase production costs. while inadequate vaccine availability remains a critical concern for disease prevention in pig farming.
The farmer urged the Federal and Edo State governments to provide accessible loans and grants, subsidised pig feed, reliable veterinary services, adequate vaccine supplies and improved rural infrastructure. He stressed that stronger government support for piggery would help protect farmers’ investments, reduce disease-related losses, improve food security and create employment opportunities for young people.
October 6, 2026/Edo State-Nigeria/
https://independent.ng/
