MODERNISING THE ABATTOIRS
Abattoirs should be operated in healthy environment On several occasions on this page, we have expressed serious concerns over the manner of producing, handling, and transporting beef from abattoirs to the different
The Nigerian government is proposing the establishment of modern abattoirs in Edo and Plateau States to modernize livestock production and processing in the country. The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mahia, expressed the need to change the narrative surrounding livestock farming and transform the sector. He argued that the livestock supply chain must change, as transporting animals over long distances is inefficient.
Mahia emphasized the importance of innovation in driving this transformation, stating that Nigeria cannot improve the sector by continuing the same practices.
Currently, the unhygienic means of transporting meat from abattoirs to markets pose significant health risks to consumers. Many abattoirs are in poor condition, with carcasses left in open spaces that attract contamination. In most states, the situation is worse, with abattoirs emitting foul odors due to the heaps of waste materials left unattended. The burning of fur in the open, using firewood and lorry tyres, further contributes to environmental pollution through the smoke produced.
Mahia highlighted the need for a shift in practices, such as abandoning the use of wheelbarrows, motorbikes, and rickety vehicles for transporting meat. He called for an end to these unhygienic methods of handling beef, especially since medical experts have differing opinions about the exact causes of cancer in the country. The public and critical stakeholders in the business need to be adequately informed on how to handle beef to prevent health hazards.
The modern abattoirs proposed by the government are expected to serve as a standard for better handling of animals during slaughter, loading, and transportation. The idea is to ensure that animals are better cared for throughout the process, ultimately improving the quality of the meat produced. The government hopes that these modern facilities will encourage better practices in the livestock sector, leading to improved health outcomes for consumers and a more sustainable environment.
Written by urgent.news from This Day's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
