The Federal Government has confirmed an outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, commonly referred to as bird flu, in Kano State.

The disease, which affects various bird species, including layers, ducks, guinea fowls, and turkeys, has raised concerns over its potential spread in the region.

In a circular signed by Dr. Taiwo Olasoju, on behalf of the Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, authorities highlighted the heightened risk of transmission during this period.

“We urge all state veterinary offices and relevant agencies to activate their surveillance systems immediately. Strict biosecurity measures must be implemented, and public awareness campaigns intensified to curb the spread of the virus,” the circular stated.

Origins of the Outbreak

Dr. Usman Gwarzo, Chairman of the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN), Kano State chapter, revealed how the outbreak started. He recounted an incident from December 2024 that sounded the alarm.

“A young man from Galadanchi quarters in Gwale Local Government Area purchased a duck from Janguza market in Tofa LGA and introduced it to his flock of hens and chickens. The duck suddenly died, and shortly after, the chickens followed,” Dr. Gwarzo explained.

The carcasses were taken to the Gwale veterinary clinic, where avian influenza was suspected.

“Samples were sent for testing, and by the first week of January 2025, the results confirmed the presence of the virus,” he added.

Preventative Measures in Place

Although no cases have been reported from commercial poultry farms, stakeholders are not taking any chances. PAN Kano State chapter is collaborating with the government to raise awareness among poultry farmers and traders.

“We are urging farmers to avoid mixing birds from different sources, especially during this time. Biosecurity is critical. Farmers must disinfect their facilities regularly and report any unusual deaths immediately,” Dr. Gwarzo emphasized.

The circular also called for closer monitoring of poultry populations to detect and respond to potential cases promptly. Public awareness campaigns are being ramped up to educate farmers and traders about the dangers of the virus and how to protect their flocks.

What Farmers Need to Know

Veterinary experts advise farmers to keep their poultry isolated and report sudden deaths to the nearest veterinary clinic.

“Early detection can help us contain the virus before it spreads further,” Dr. Gwarzo stressed.

Poultry sellers at Janguza market expressed concern over the situation.

“We are scared because bird flu is dangerous. We’ve seen cases in the past where it wiped out entire farms,” said Musa Abdullahi, a trader at the market.

Meanwhile, the Kano State Government has pledged to support farmers and ensure swift containment measures.

Impact on Poultry Businesses

While the outbreak remains confined to small-scale farms, fears of a wider spread have already begun to affect poultry businesses. Some traders reported a dip in sales as consumers grow wary of purchasing poultry.

“It’s tough right now. People are afraid to buy chickens, and we’re losing customers,” said Aisha Yusuf, a chicken seller at Sabon Gari market.

Authorities continue to reassure the public that with the right precautions, the outbreak can be contained.

“We are doing everything possible to prevent this from escalating,” said Dr. Gwarzo.

For now, Kano residents are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious bird deaths to veterinary authorities.

As of December 31, 2024, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has signed a total of 5,481 Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O), according to a statement by the Minister’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, on Tuesday.

This figure is 2,919 fewer than the total number of C-of-O certificates printed and signed by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) over the 13-year period from 2010 to 2023.

Olayinka also stated that once the necessary payments are made, land allottees can now receive their C-of-O within two weeks.

He said: “One of the reasons land allottees do not find it compelling to pay for their C-of-O is because when they pay, they wait for years. But in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government, that has changed now.

“Even uploading of necessary information to show when a C-of-O is collected as well as details on the collector that used to take months, is now done within 72 hours”.

Giving details of C-of-O produced and signed in the FCT in the last 15 years, the Minister’s spokesman said; “From May 2010 to May 2015, a total of 5,655 Certificates of Occupancy were produced and signed.

“From May 2015 to May 2019, a total of 1,174 Certificates of Occupancy were produced and signed, while 1,571 were done between May 2019 and May 2023.

“Meanwhile, from May 2023 that President Tinubu assumed office till December 31, 2024, a total of 5,481 Certificates of Occupancy were produced and signed by the FCT minister.

“Also, in the next few weeks, land allottees whose C-of-O are ready for collection will begin to receive auto-generated SMS because it has been discovered that most of them don’t even know that their title documents are ready.”

The owner of Ibadan-based broadcasting station, Agidigbo FM, Oriyomi Hamzat, has perfected his bail conditions and has been released from Agodi Correctional Centre, Ibadan, Oyo State.

The broadcaster regained freedom with his co-accused, including Ooni of Ife’s ex-queen, Naomi Silekunola, and the principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun, Abdulahi Fasasi.

They were all remanded over their alleged involvement in the Ibadan stampede that resulted in the deaths of 35 children in December 2024.

Giving a ruling on his bail application on Monday, Justice K. B. Olawoyin admitted the suspects to bail with a bond of ₦10 million each and two sureties in like sums.

However, Hamzat, after regaining his freedom on Tuesday, was received by a mammoth crowd at his broadcasting station, where he was captured in tears while addressing the people.

He told the crowd, “Oriyomi is back. At this time, I am in a moment of silence. Thank you very much.”

Recall that the Oyo State Government filed an 18-count criminal charge against Silekunola, Hamzat and Fasasi after the tragic incident.

The case, which was filed on Friday, January 10, 2025, at the State High Court, is marked with charge number I/05C/2025.

The trio were accused of offences including conspiracy to commit murder, manslaughter, criminal negligence, and other related charges.

The charge sheet obtained by The PUNCH on Sunday revealed that the accused individuals failed to provide adequate security, crowd control mechanisms, and medical facilities during the ill-fated funfair event held at the Islamic High School.

Their alleged negligence led to a stampede, resulting in the deaths of 35 children, with 14 victims identified in court documents.

The prosecution accused the defendants of conspiring to commit acts of criminal negligence, contrary to Section 517 of the Criminal Code, CAP 38, Vol II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.

According to the charge sheet, the trio “Did negligently omit to provide adequate security, crowd control mechanisms, and medical facilities, resulting in the death of Musiliu Sofiat, aged 8, and 34 other children.”