The Federal Government has confirmed an outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Kano State, affecting various bird species, including layers, ducks, guinea fowl, and turkeys.
In a circular signed by Dr Taiwo Olasoju on behalf of the Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, it was noted that the risk of the disease spreading is particularly high at this time. He urged relevant agencies and state veterinary offices to activate surveillance systems to curb the spread of the virus, stressing the importance of strict biosecurity measures, public awareness campaigns, and close monitoring of poultry populations to detect and respond to potential cases speedily.
“We need to take adequate preventive measures,” he emphasised, urging stakeholders — such as poultry farmers, traders, and the public to work collectively to prevent the virus from spreading to neighbouring states and other regions.
Recalling a previous case prior to the outbreak, the Kano State Chairman of the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN), Dr Usman Gwarzo, explained the circumstances surrounding the detection of the virus. “In December 2024, a young man from Galadanchi quarters in Gwale Local Government Area bought a duck from Janguza market in Tofa LGA and introduced it to his flock of hens and chickens. The duck suddenly died, followed by the chickens. The carcasses were taken to the Gwale veterinary clinic,” Gwarzo stated.
“Samples were sent for confirmation, and results in the first week of January 2025 confirmed the presence of avian influenza. So far, no similar reports have emerged from poultry farms,” he added.
Pharmanewsonline reports that Avian influenza was first introduced to the sub-Saharan region in 2006 and has since been a recurring challenge in Nigeria. According to a report published by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the 2006 outbreak affected 97 farms across 11 states, leading to the culling of over 450,000 birds to contain the spread. Nigeria witnessed additional waves of outbreak in 2007 and 2008, prompting significant losses for the poultry industry.
After a brief period of relative calm, the virus resurfaced in 2015, affecting 24 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Over 1.1 million birds were culled to control the outbreak, with farmers incurring substantial economic losses. This, according to the World Organisation for Animal Health.
Analytical Reports from livestock experts, noted that the resurgence of the virus was exacerbated by gaps in biosecurity and insufficient disease control measures
In 2021, a report by the Nigerian Federal Department of Veterinary and Pest Control Services noted that another wave of avian influenza was recorded in multiple states, including commercial poultry farms and live bird markets.
Experts from the FAO and the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) have repeatedly emphasised the role of live bird markets, inadequate biosecurity practices, and the migratory patterns of wild birds as major factors contributing to the persistence of avian influenza in the country.
The PAN Kano chapter is working closely with the state government to increase awareness among poultry farmers and traders.
 in Kano State, affecting various bird species, including layers, ducks, guinea fowl, and turkeys.){kind=link}