In a significant development that has sent ripples across the agricultural and public health sectors, the Rivers State Government has confirmed the outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly referred to as bird flu, at a poultry farm in the state. The outbreak, discovered on January 17, 2025, occurred in a 3,000-capacity poultry farm situated in Iriebe, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, and has raised serious concerns about its potential impact on food security, public health, and the poultry industry in Nigeria.
The State Commissioner for Agriculture, Victor Kii, made the disclosure in a statement issued in Port Harcourt, explaining that the government is taking immediate and comprehensive actions to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread. According to Kii, the affected farm has been placed under strict quarantine to curb the movement of infected birds or related products. A veterinary team from the Ministry of Agriculture, in collaboration with the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association, has successfully depopulated the infected birds and decontaminated the premises using international best practices.
Kii emphasized that disinfectant chemicals have been provided to ensure continuous decontamination of the farm, while veterinary professionals are conducting extensive surveillance in surrounding areas. The aim is to monitor for any signs of the disease in nearby farms or wild bird populations and take prompt action where necessary. The commissioner stressed that these measures are essential to mitigate the risk of the disease spreading further and causing a larger crisis within the state and beyond.
The outbreak of bird flu, caused by the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus, is a serious threat not only to poultry but also to public health. Although transmission to humans is rare, the disease can be contracted through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated environments. This has heightened the urgency of containment efforts and prompted the state government to initiate a robust awareness campaign. The campaign is being carried out in collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Poultry Association of Nigeria, the Fowl Sellers Association, and the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association.
As part of the campaign, poultry farmers and the general public are being sensitized on the symptoms of avian influenza and the importance of implementing biosecurity measures in poultry farms. Symptoms of bird flu in birds include sudden and unexplained deaths, high mortality rates that can reach 100%, swollen comb and wattles, reduced egg production, respiratory distress, and redness in the shank. The Ministry of Agriculture has urged poultry farmers and residents to report any unusual signs in birds immediately to veterinary authorities for prompt investigation and action.
The state government has assured the public of its commitment to safeguarding both the poultry industry and the health of residents. Kii reiterated that the outbreak is being managed with utmost seriousness and adherence to international protocols to prevent further spread. He called on all stakeholders to remain vigilant and cooperate with government directives, as collective efforts are essential to effectively control the outbreak.
This outbreak has underscored the critical need for biosecurity measures in poultry farming and the importance of early detection in mitigating the impact of diseases like bird flu. The Rivers State Government has pledged to continue working closely with relevant organizations and experts to ensure the safety of its poultry industry and the well-being of its citizens.
In addition to its containment measures, the Ministry of Agriculture is also focusing on educating the public about the implications of avian influenza. By enhancing public understanding of the disease, its symptoms, and preventive measures, the government aims to foster a proactive approach to managing potential risks in the future. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to strengthen food safety policies and ensure the resilience of the state’s agricultural sector.
The outbreak of bird flu in Rivers State serves as a wake-up call for both government agencies and private stakeholders to prioritize health monitoring systems and biosecurity practices in agricultural operations. It highlights the interconnectedness of human health, animal health, and the environment, emphasizing the need for a coordinated response to health crises.
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