The Nigerian Association of Animal Health and Husbandry Technologists (NAAHHT), South-West Zone, has called for greater professional recognition, improved working conditions, continuous training and effective utilisation of veterinary technicians and technologists to strengthen animal health, public health and food security in Nigeria.
The call was made during the maiden celebration of World Veterinary Technician and Technologist Week 2026, held at the Dr. K. J. Nwufoh Auditorium, Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, Moor Plantation, Ibadan, under the theme: Empowering an Essential Workforce for One Health Future’.
In his keynote address, NAAHHT national president, Mr. Kazeem Ayobami Akingboye, described the celebration as an opportunity to recognise the vital contributions of animal health personnel to veterinary healthcare delivery, livestock production and national development. He commended the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) for recognising the importance of middle- and junior-level animal health personnel.
He recalled professional disagreements over the use of the prefix ‘Vet’ in these designations and NAAHHT’s recourse to the Industrial Arbitration Panel in 1989, which contributed to the adoption of the present designations of Animal Health and Husbandry Technologists for HND holders and Animal Health Assistants/Technicians for ND holders, with provisions for career progression.
Emphasising mutual respect and professional cooperation, he stated: ‘Collaboration without subjugation remains the primary focus.’ He urged members to uphold professional competence, ethical conduct and animal welfare, while encouraging students to identify with NAAHHT and participate in its activities.
Prince Oyewumi Oyedele Oyetunde, NAAHHT national vice president, South-West Zone, prescribed a paper titled: ‘The Role of Veterinary Technicians and Technologists in Advancing Animal Health, Public Health and Food Security.’