The Nasarawa State Government has issued a stern warning to a local government abattoir over poor sanitary conditions, threatening to shut it down if immediate corrective measures are not taken. The warning followed an inspection exercise by officials from the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, who expressed concern about the unhygienic state of the facility and its potential health risks to residents.
During the visit, environmental health officers observed that the abattoir lacked basic sanitary infrastructure, including proper waste disposal systems, running water, and standard slaughtering equipment. Officials lamented that animal remains and wastewater were being discharged indiscriminately, creating an environment conducive for the spread of diseases. They stressed that such conditions pose serious public health hazards, especially in light of the state’s efforts to combat communicable diseases.
The government explained that its intervention was not aimed at crippling the economic activities of butchers and meat traders, but to ensure that residents consume hygienically prepared meat. Authorities warned that continued negligence could lead to the abattoir’s immediate closure, adding that erring operators would also face penalties in line with existing public health laws.
Residents and traders expressed mixed reactions to the government’s threat. While some butchers appealed for more time and financial support to upgrade the facility, health advocates and community leaders commended the authorities for prioritizing public safety. They emphasized that the state must not compromise on sanitation standards given the high risks associated with contaminated food.
The Ministry of Environment assured butchers of its willingness to provide technical guidance on how to improve operations at the abattoir. Officials also urged the operators to organize themselves into cooperatives to enable them access loans and support schemes designed to upgrade public facilities.
The move forms part of a broader sanitation drive by the Nasarawa State Government, which has been enforcing strict hygiene compliance in markets, food processing outlets, and abattoirs. The state has reiterated that public health and environmental safety remain central to its development agenda, warning that no facility will be spared from sanctions if found wanting.
Authorities concluded by urging residents to remain vigilant and report unhygienic practices in abattoirs and meat markets. They reassured the public that government would sustain its enforcement drive to ensure that meat supplied to households and businesses in Nasarawa meets the highest safety standards.
