Nigeria Opens Solar Vaccine Hub To Protect Livestock

The federal government has unveiled a 40 million-dose capacity solar-powered National Strategic Vaccine Cold Storage Facility to strengthen Nigeria’s fight against livestock diseases and improve food security.

Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, commissioned the facility at the Sheda Science and Technology Complex, Gwagwalada, Abuja.

He said the project will enhance disease prevention, vaccine distribution, and livestock productivity, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“For too long, inadequate vaccine storage has weakened our ability to control livestock diseases. Today, we are bridging that gap with a world-class facility that ensures efficient vaccine preservation and nationwide distribution,” Maiha said.

The facility’s solar-powered system guarantees uninterrupted vaccine storage, even in remote areas, making it a critical asset for combating enzootic diseases, transboundary outbreaks, and zoonotic threats

“With 40 million doses now secured, Nigeria is better positioned to protect livestock, safeguard farmers’ investments, and strengthen national food security,” Maiha added.

The project was developed with support from the World Bank-backed Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES). National Project Coordinator Sanusi Abubakar said the facility would enhance vaccine quality control, traceability, and emergency response.

Co- chairman of the Presidential Livestock Reforms Committee, Professor Attahiru Jega, described the facility as a “game-changer” for the livestock sector.

He urged stakeholders to ensure its proper utilization and long-term sustainability.

“This facility will transform disease prevention in Nigeria’s livestock sector. Stakeholders must work together to maintain it for lasting impact,” Jega stated.

With its solar-powered design and large storage capacity, the facility marks a major milestone in Nigeria’s livestock development, reinforcing the government’s commitment to food security and sustainable agriculture.