Some considerations of veterinary drug use and supply in Nigeria

Abstract

There is widespread misuse of veterinary drugs in Nigeria resulting from controlled and unsupervised drug administration, underdosing and incomplete treatment. Development of resistance and toxicity are common consequences of this misuse. Drug shortage, uneven distribution, preponderance of fake and/or expired drugs and inadequate local drug production are some of the problems identified in veterinary drug supply. All these problems have an adverse effect on animal health and productivity and are related to an improperly coordinated veterinary service and the non-existence of national veterinary drug policy. Suggested solutions include rehabilitation and restructuring of the veterinary service, improved funding to support drug purchase, installation of self-servicing revolving funds, partial privatization, drug manufacture and appropriate legislations for veterinary drugs. These proposals are expected to overcome bottlenecks in drug supply, distribution, delivery, prescription and use. Projections and plans must also be made toward the local development and manufacture of drugs for animal disease.