Kehinde Fajobi
The Rivers State Government has confirmed an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, in a poultry farm in Iriebe, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
The outbreak, which occurred at a 3,000-capacity poultry farm, was disclosed in a statement by the State Commissioner for Agriculture, Victor Kii, on Tuesday.
Kii noted that the government has taken swift measures to control the situation.
“The Ministry of Agriculture wishes to confirm and inform the public about the outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (bird flu) in a 3,000-capacity poultry farm in Iriebe, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State on Thursday, 17th January, 2025,” the statement read.
The commissioner revealed that the farm has been quarantined, infected birds have been culled, and the premises have been decontaminated.
“Health professionals of the veterinary department of the Ministry of Agriculture, in collaboration with the Nigerian Veterinary Association of Nigeria, have visited the farm.
“Disinfectant chemicals have been provided for continuous decontamination of the farm,” he said.
Kii added that veterinary teams are conducting extensive surveillance in surrounding areas to monitor for signs of the disease in other farms or wild bird populations.
The ministry urged poultry farmers and the public to report any unusual bird symptoms, such as sudden deaths, reduced egg production, or respiratory distress, for prompt action.
To prevent further spread, Kii stated that the ministry is collaborating with organisations, including the Poultry Association of Nigeria and the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association, to sensitise farmers on best practices.
He emphasised the importance of vigilance, biosecurity, and cooperation, saying, “The Ministry of Agriculture is committed to safeguarding the health of our poultry industry and the public.
“By working together and remaining vigilant, we can mitigate the impact of this outbreak.”
Bird flu poses significant risks to both poultry and human health, making the government’s proactive steps essential to ensuring food safety and public well-being.