In a decisive move to strengthen the livestock sector and safeguard public health, the Kano State Government under the leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has approved the sum of N99 million for the implementation of Phase I of its Anti-Rabies Control Program.
Halima Sani Gadanya, the Director, Public Enlightenment at the State Ministry of Livestock Development, in a statement on Friday, said the initiative, to be coordinated by the Kano State Ministry of Livestock Development under the leadership of the Commissioner, Dr. Aliyu Isah Aliyu, aims to vaccinate no fewer than 10,000 dogs across the state in the first phase.
Rabies is a deadly but preventable viral disease that affects both animals and humans.
Commonly transmitted through dog bites, the disease is almost always fatal once clinical symptoms appear, making it a serious public health concern.
Health experts have consistently identified mass dog vaccination as the most effective strategy for preventing transmission and protecting human lives.
According to the statement, as part of sustained efforts to eliminate rabies in the state, the Ministry has also concluded plans to conduct a statewide dog census.
The exercise is expected to generate reliable data to enhance planning, monitoring, and long-term rabies control interventions across Kano.
Dr. Aliyu described the program as a critical step towards improving animal welfare and protecting residents from preventable health risks.
He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to working closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the initiative.
The Commissioner called on residents to cooperate fully with vaccination teams by presenting their dogs for immunisation and supporting all government efforts aimed at curbing the spread of rabies.
Kano State Government reiterated its commitment to implementing impactful policies and programs that promote public health, strengthen livestock development, and ensure the safety and well-being of citizens.
