Nigeria to deploy AI tools to tackle livestock diseases, curb meat sector losses

NIGERIA – Nigeria is increasing the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to address persistent disease outbreaks that continue to impact its meat production and rural livelihoods.

A recent study published in June 2025 by the Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition estimates that the country loses around US$26 million each year to bovine fasciolosis alone.

Other major livestock diseases, including bovine tuberculosis, brucellosis, and salmonellosis, are responsible for estimated annual losses of US$2.9 billion, US$1.5 billion, and US$3 billion, respectively.

These conditions reduce milk yields, increase treatment costs, and expose small-scale farmers to income shocks, with national food supply also under pressure.

To reduce these impacts, Nigeria is turning to digital tools designed to help detect animal illnesses faster and guide treatment responses in real time.

On July 4, the federal government approved a nationwide rollout of VetWiz 2.0, a smartphone-based AI platform created by Farm Innovation Nigeria.

The application is intended to improve veterinary care in hard-to-reach areas by allowing users to spot symptoms, get advice on treatment, consult licensed professionals, and locate nearby animal clinics.

Farm Innovation Nigeria CEO Chinwe Owhorji said the tool is meant to assist field officers working in communities with limited access to trained veterinary staff.

The company’s Chief Technology Officer, Olawale Arowolo, noted that the app transmits live data to institutions such as the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI), helping support animal health surveillance and research.

He added that while AI systems like VetWiz 2.0 do not replace professionals, they provide analytics that enhance decision-making.

Other players enter the AI livestock health space

The launch of VetWiz 2.0 comes as more Nigerian startups focus on digital livestock health solutions using AI and smart devices.

Companies such as Evet Africa, founded in 2021, have built tools like Vetable AI, which diagnoses animal diseases through mobile devices and links users to physical veterinary services.

Newer entrants like Doorcas Africa, established in 2023, and Farmspeak Technology, operating since 2019, combine artificial intelligence with Internet of Things (IoT) systems to monitor animal health and prevent disease outbreaks.

These tools aim to reduce the economic losses facing livestock farmers while improving productivity and ensuring better food availability.

According to Samuel Anzaku, Chief Veterinarian at the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, VetWiz 2.0 will play a critical role in preventing disease spread and supporting evidence-based interventions.

Livestock currently contributes about 35% of Nigeria’s agricultural GDP and provides 37% of the total animal protein consumed in the country.

Authorities and developers believe digital tools will modernize the sector and equip rural communities with access to timely and actionable animal health services.

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