Leadway Assurance has advised pig farmers across Nigeria to strengthen biosecurity measures to protect their livestock against African Swine Fever (ASF), following growing concerns over recent outbreaks of the disease in parts of the country.
African Swine Fever is a highly contagious viral disease that affects pigs and spreads rapidly through herds, often causing high mortality and huge financial losses for farmers. Although the disease does not affect humans, there is currently no approved treatment or commercially available vaccine.
The insurance company said prevention remains the most effective way to control the disease and protect farmers’ investments.
To help reduce the risk of outbreaks, Leadway has issued a risk advisory urging pig farmers to tighten security around their farms, quarantine newly introduced pigs, improve cleaning and disinfection practices, closely monitor animals for signs of illness and promptly report suspected cases to veterinary authorities.
Speaking on the need for greater vigilance, the Global Head of Agricultural Risk Solutions at Leadway Assurance, Ayoola Fatona, said farmers should not wait until an outbreak occurs before taking preventive action.
“Insurance is designed to help farmers recover from unforeseen losses, but our first priority is helping them avoid those losses altogether,” he said.
Fatona warned that African Swine Fever has the potential to wipe out entire pig herds within a short time if proper preventive measures are not taken.
“Prevention cannot be treated as an afterthought,” he said. “Strengthening farm biosecurity today is one of the most important investments pig farmers can make.”
He said stronger biosecurity measures would help farmers protect their livelihoods, ensure business continuity and safeguard Nigeria’s livestock industry.
Fatona added that Leadway’s support for farmers goes beyond providing insurance policies.
“We work alongside farmers to build resilience before risks materialise,” he said.
He explained that the company supports livestock farmers through expert guidance, risk improvement programmes and regular engagement to help them prepare for emerging threats such as African Swine Fever.
Leadway also reminded insured farmers of the need to maintain proper biosecurity standards and comply with disease control regulations as part of responsible farm management.
The company advised farmers to review their existing biosecurity measures and make any necessary improvements without delay.
As part of its wider response, Leadway said it will continue to educate farmers through radio programmes, webinars, community town hall meetings and stakeholder partnerships to promote disease awareness, encourage preventive action and strengthen the resilience of Nigeria’s agricultural sector.