Prevalence and Trends of Abattoir-Detected Diseases in Slaughtered Livestock between 2021-2024 at Sokoto Metropolitan Abattoir, Sokoto State, Nigeria

Abstract

A four-year retrospective study (2021–2024) was conducted using abattoir records from the Sokoto Modern Abattoir, Nigeria, to assess the prevalence and seasonal distribution of major livestock diseases. Data on cattle, sheep, goats, and camels were analysed using descriptive statistics and trend analysis. The results showed a progressive decline in Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP) prevalence from 2.5% in 2021 to 0.6% in 2024, with higher cases recorded during the dry season. Bovine and Camel Tuberculosis maintained relatively stable prevalence rates of 0.2% and 3.0%, respectively, with slight increases during the rainy season. Fasciolosis prevalence decreased from 5.0% to 2.8% without clear seasonal variation, possibly due to routine annual deworming campaigns. Overall, the declining trend in disease occurrence suggests improved surveillance, vaccination coverage, and animal health management. However, the persistence of zoonotic infections such as tuberculosis highlights the need for enhanced diagnostic capacity and stricter control measures. Continued vaccination, deworming, and the establishment of an abattoir-based diagnostic laboratory are strongly recommended.