Animal breeding and genetics experts have expressed worry over existential threat posed by climate change and man-made factors to four endangered animal species in Nigeria.
The species of concern are camels (Camelus dromedarius), donkeys, Muturu and N’Dama cattle breeds.
They said that the risk status of these animals with the poor population growth rate of camels particularly call for urgent interventions.
At a stakeholder engagement of the draft policy on endangered livestock breeds of cattle in Nigeria, registrar of the Nigeria Institute of Animal Science (NIAS), Prof Eustace Ayemere Iyayi, emphasised the need to ensure the survival and conservation of these species.
The meeting brought experts together to look at the draft policy document and discuss how to tap into the resources of these animals and make Nigeria globally competitive in conservation of genetic materials. The policy could also boost the productivity of these animals, contributing to the national economy, particularly in the livestock subsector.
According to Iyayi, the stakeholders examined the production, sustainability, marketing, breeding, and other aspects of these high-priced animals to prevent extinction and ensure their use in animal husbandry practices.
A professor of animal science, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Demo Kalla, believed that a robust policy in place for conservation of these valuable genetic resources would benefit not only the current generation but also future generations in Nigeria and Africa.
„Unless there is a systematic plan to address the changing numbers of these animals, they are highly threatened and need to have a robust policy in place for their conservation“, Kalla said.
Prof. Michael Momo of the Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, stressed the importance of conserving these endangered species and ensuring their continued existence in the country.
He said by developing and implementing a robust policy, Nigeria can contribute to the nation‘s economy and conservation of genetic resources.
