Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has donated an operational vehicle to the Kogi State Chapter of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) to support its operations and strengthen disease control efforts across the state.

Speaking on behalf of the Governor during the official handover of the vehicle, the Technical Adviser to the Governor on Multilateral and Donor-Funded Projects, Dr. Sanni Abdullahi Ozomata, said the gesture reflects the government’s recognition of the vital role veterinarians play in protecting both animal and human health.

He described veterinarians as frontline defenders in the fight against zoonotic diseases, which pose significant threats to communities and the food chain.

Dr. Ozomata noted that through disease surveillance, vaccination, food safety assurance, and risk assessment, veterinarians contribute immensely to public health and food security.

He added that the donation is part of efforts to support the state’s vision under the “One Health” initiative, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health for sustainable wellbeing in Kogi State.

Receiving the vehicle on behalf of the association, Chairman of the Kogi State Chapter of the NVMA,, Dr. Tolu Omotugba, expressed deep appreciation to Governor Ododo for what he described as a timely intervention.

He said the vehicle will ease mobility challenges and enable members of the association to respond more efficiently to the demands of their profession both within and outside the state.

Dr. Omotugba also conveyed the association’s gratitude to Governor Ododo and assured the Governor of the association’s continued cooperation, support, and prayers for the success of his administration.

He also commended Dr. Sanni Abdullahi Ozomata for being a worthy ambassador of the veterinary profession and for facilitating the support by the state government.