The Nigerian Federal Government has officially confirmed the first case of anthrax in the country, specifically detected on a farm in Niger State.

Earlier, on June 13, 2023, the government had warned the public about the anthrax outbreak in neighboring countries within the West African sub-region, advising against the consumption of hides, popularly known as “ponmo,” for the time being.

The disease was reported to be widespread in northern Ghana, bordering Burkina Faso and Togo. In a statement, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development expressed deep concern and announced the confirmation of an anthrax case in Niger State.

Rapid response teams conducted investigations and collected samples from the affected animals.

Measures including quarantine, vaccination, and public awareness campaigns have been implemented to control and contain the outbreak.

Livestock owners have been advised to remain vigilant, report suspicious illnesses or deaths, and avoid contact with infected animals or their products.

Caution is advised when purchasing animals from certain Nigerian states and neighboring countries.