Cattle production systems characteristics and their influence on antimicrobial use, alternatives, and resistance risk in Nigeria

Background: Nigerian cattle production ranks 6th in Africa and 16th globally, constituting an important livelihood for many of its population. However, several health challenges affect the productivity of cattle herds, influencing antimicrobial use (AMU) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In this study, we attempt to characterise the cattle production system and its influence on health management practices. A mixed-methods approach, comprising semi-structured questionnaires (n = 736) and stakeholder focus group discussions, was employed.

Results: The majority of cattle production (78%) is extensive, with a median of 50 cattle per herd. Diseases of major burden are mastitis, gastrointestinal and respiratory diseases. Animal health was predominantly self-managed by farmers rather than using public/private veterinary services. Less than 5% of farmers regularly vaccinate their herds, partly due to unavailability and perceptions on effectiveness. Antibiotics are used indiscriminately and without prescription by most farmers. While some farmers use herbs, many stated that factors of low awareness and difficulty limited their wider use. Elderly Fulani pastoralists familiar with ethnoveterinary remedies were regarded as secretive, as they only shared this knowledge within their families. Farmers have poor knowledge and attitudes regarding the impact of AMU in cattle and the risk of AMR. Farmers with a secondary level of education were more likely to have better practices than farmers with no formal education (OR: 1.97, 95% CI: 1.08–3.63, p = 0.027).

Conclusions: Future research should focus on identifying culturally sensitive ways of preserving and sharing the ethnoveterinary knowledge of Fulani pastoralists. The efficacy of available herbs for veterinary diseases of concern can also be assessed. Access to governmental veterinary services, and agricultural extension agents should be improved to increase uptake of vaccines and professional care. Awareness about proper AMU and AMR risks should be raised, and antibiotic sales by unlicensed drugstores strictly regulated.