By our Reporter
IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, acting Inspector-General of Police, has unveiled plans to provide free anti-rabies vaccinations for all dogs in the police veterinary clinics across the country.
According to the Police Force, the development, which was taken to commemorate the 17th World Rabies Day, under the theme ‘All for 1, One Health for all’, is aimed at mitigating the threat of rabies in the country.
ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, in a statement issued on Thursday, said the initiative sought to protect not only our loyal canine companions but also to prevent the transmission of rabies to humans.
He added that the initiative is also to recognize “the critical role played by our police veterinary personnel and dog handlers in safeguarding our communities, and in a bid to protect their well-being and promote public safety, the Police will offer free anti-rabies vaccinations to all our police veterinary personnel and dog handlers.”
The statement reads, “The Inspector-General of Police., today 28th September, 2023, joins the global community in marking the 17th World Rabies Day, under the theme ‘All for 1, One Health for all’ which underscores the crucial message that the concept of One Health is not limited to a select few but is intended to benefit everyone. World Rabies Day serves as a reminder of the importance of collaborative efforts in eradicating this deadly disease, which affects both humans and animals.
“As part of our dedication to the One Health initiative, the Nigeria Police Force is proud to announce a special initiative aimed at mitigating the threat of rabies in our society. Starting today, and for the next month, the Nigeria Police Force will provide free anti-rabies vaccinations for all dogs in our police veterinary clinics across the country. This initiative seeks to protect not only our loyal canine companions but also to prevent the transmission of rabies to humans. Similarly, recognizing the critical role played by our police veterinary personnel and dog handlers in safeguarding our communities, and in a bid to protect their well-being and promote public safety, the Police will offer free anti-rabies vaccinations to all our police veterinary personnel and dog handlers.
“The Inspector General of Police reiterates the resolve of his administration to ensuring equitable access to health services based on the belief that health should not be a privilege but a fundamental right for all. He urges that on this 17th World Rabies Day, all Nigerians should remember that together, we can make a difference in the global work towards a rabies-free future.”