The Federal Government of Nigeria has confirmed an outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, commonly referred to as bird flu, in Kano State.
The bird flu, which affects various bird species, including layers, ducks, guinea fowls, and turkeys, has raised concerns over its potential spread in the region.
In a circular signed by Dr. Taiwo Olasoju, on behalf of the Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, authorities highlighted the heightened risk of transmission during this period.
“We urge all state veterinary offices and relevant agencies to activate their surveillance systems immediately. Strict biosecurity measures must be implemented, and public awareness campaigns intensified to curb the spread of the virus,” the circular stated.
Origins of the outbreak
Dr. Usman Gwarzo, Chairman of the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN), Kano State chapter, revealed how the outbreak started. He recounted an incident from December 2024 that sounded the alarm.
“A young man from Galadanchi quarters in Gwale Local Government Area purchased a duck from Janguza market in Tofa LGA and introduced it to his flock of hens and chickens. The duck suddenly died, and shortly after, the chickens followed,” Dr. Gwarzo explained.
The carcasses were taken to the Gwale veterinary clinic, where avian influenza was suspected.
“Samples were sent for testing, and by the first week of January 2025, the results confirmed the presence of the virus,” he added.
Preventative measures in place
Although no cases have been reported from commercial poultry farms, stakeholders are not taking any chances. PAN Kano State chapter is collaborating with the government to raise awareness among poultry farmers and traders.
“We are urging farmers to avoid mixing birds from different sources, especially during this time. Biosecurity is critical. Farmers must disinfect their facilities regularly and report any unusual deaths immediately,” Dr. Gwarzo emphasized.
The circular also called for closer monitoring of poultry populations to detect and respond to potential cases promptly. Public awareness campaigns are being ramped up to educate farmers and traders about the dangers of the virus and how to protect their flocks.
What farmers need to know
Veterinary experts advise farmers to keep their poultry isolated and report sudden deaths to the nearest veterinary clinic.
“Early detection can help us contain the virus before it spreads further,” Dr. Gwarzo stressed.
Poultry sellers at Janguza market expressed concern over the situation, bird flu cases.
“We are scared because bird flu is dangerous. We’ve seen cases in the past where it wiped out entire farms,” said Musa Abdullahi, a trader at the market.
Meanwhile, the Kano State Government has pledged to support farmers and ensure swift containment measures.
Impact on poultry businesses
While the outbreak remains confined to small-scale farms, fears of a wider spread have already begun to affect poultry businesses. Some traders reported a dip in sales as consumers grow wary of purchasing poultry.
“It’s tough right now. People are afraid to buy chickens, and we’re losing customers,” said Aisha Yusuf, a chicken seller at Sabon Gari market.
Authorities continue to reassure the public that with the right precautions, the bird flu outbreak can be contained.
“We are doing everything possible to prevent this from escalating,” said Dr. Gwarzo.
For now, Kano residents are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious bird deaths to veterinary authorities.
![Rev. Fr. Anthony Odiong, a US-based Nigerian Louisiana Catholic priest, was arrested in Florida on Tuesday for possessing child pornography, according to law authorities. The suspect is reportedly accused of many other cases of sexual assault. The Waco, Texas, Police Department announced in a Facebook post on Tuesday that officers detained Father Anthony Odiong in Ave Maria, Florida, with assistance from the United States Marshals Service. Waco police announced in March that they had received "credible information" about a sexual assault allegedly committed by Odiong in Texas in 2012. “During the subsequent investigation, a case of possession of child pornography was uncovered,” the police said. The priest was apprehended in Florida by the Caribbean Regional Fugitive Task Force. The Waco Police Department said that he will be extradited to Texas. Odiong had previously served in the Archdiocese of New Orleans before being removed as priest in December of last year due to controversy over homilies in which he claimed, among other things, that the Catholic Church was being taken over by "the gays." At the time, the priest was also accused of abusive behaviour; a Louisiana lady claimed in U.S. bankruptcy court that Odiong had committed both financial and sexual abuse against her. Prior to joining the New Orleans Archdiocese, Odiong served in at least two Texas parishes. On Tuesday, Waco police stated that during their sexual assault investigation, "the presence of other survivors was revealed." “Multiple women have come forward to tell similar experiences as the sexual assault survivor who reported the initial allegation,” the police department said. “Survivors’ experiences ranged from sexual assault and indecent assault, more commonly recognised as groping, and financial abuse, with some survivors experiencing every element of Anthony Odiong’s manipulation.” The police said they “believe there may be more survivors, and we wish to speak with anyone who [has] had similar encounters” with the priest. The Archdiocese of New Orleans issued a brief news release on Tuesday noting Odiong's arrest in Florida. The archdiocese “encourages anyone with any information to contact law enforcement,” the release said.](https://chronicle.ng/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ezgif-6-4730550ede-450x300.jpg "Odiong: US-based Nigerian Catholic priest convicted over sexual assault")
