Veterinarians have been challenged to stand up to the vision and aim of the profession in ensuring there is food safety in the society.
This call came from speakers at the 2022 Anambra Veterinary Colloquium by the Anambra Chapter of the Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association. The programme was held in Awka, Anambra state with the them, The Veterinarian And Food Safety.
It is worthy of note that a veterinarian is a medical professional who protects the health and well-being of both animals and people. They diagnose and control animal diseases and treat sick and injured animals. They also advise owners on proper care of their pets and livestock.
Veterinarians provide a wide range of services in private practice, teaching, research, government service, public health, military service, private industry and other areas.
Addressing members of the profession during his welcome speech, the state chairman of the association, Dr Ifeanyi Obiwulu said through the colloquium, they make sure they take their stand on improving herd health thereby leading to increased herd productivity which in turn assures food availability and guarantees food safety.
Dr Obiwulu encouraged members of the public to go for wholesome meat and engage the services of veterinarians when necessary while promising to get rid of quacks in the system.
In a lecture, Professor Chukwudozie Ezeokoli said over the years, veterinary profession has focused on population medicine, controlling a host of emerging and re-emerging diseases, reminding them of consumer confidence through meat inspection, which generally improves health directly.
In his goodwill message, a dealer on veterinary drugs, lamented the vacuum in the training of professionals and called on the state government to establish veterinary clinics and drug banks where farmers can assess quality drugs for their animals. The event featured lectures and award presentations.
