The Society for Animal Right Protection (SARP) on Monday celebrated International Animal Rights Day with a colourful event aimed at promoting responsible pet ownership and advancing the cause of animal welfare in Nigeria.
The programme, held at the Conference Room of SARP’s Secretariat in Ibadan, was chaired by Mr. Ayotunde Opakunbi, who in his opening remarks emphasized the need to respect animal rights and treat them with dignity.
“All creatures deserve to live free and be treated with respect. In more advanced nations, animal rights are taken seriously. It is important for us to create more awareness on how to care for animals here in Nigeria. I commend SARP for this laudable initiative and for striving to make animal welfare a priority,” he said.
Dr. Ibikunle Faramade, President of SARP, provided an overview of the organization’s activities since its unveiling on March 21, 2021, at an event hosted by legal luminary, Aare Afe Babalola.
According to him, SARP has made significant progress in sensitizing the public about animal rights through webinars, radio programmes, and newspaper publications. He noted that the organization had also condemned the gruesome killing of dogs and organized events to engage hunters on the importance of protecting wildlife.
Dr. Faramade reiterated SARP’s commitment to ensuring animals are treated with care and dignity. He said the recognition of outstanding pet owners at the event was aimed at encouraging responsible pet ownership and showcasing individuals who set positive examples for others.
In the keynote address, Professor O. T. Jeremiah, Director of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Ibadan, highlighted the challenges facing animal healthcare in Nigeria.
He identified the non-recognition of veterinarians, inadequate support, and lack of modern equipment as major issues affecting animal care in the country.
“We need to reorient ourselves as a society on the importance of animal welfare,” he said. “There is a need for adequate funding, training, and retraining of veterinarians, as well as the provision of modern equipment to improve animal healthcare.”
Professor Jeremiah called on stakeholders to provide more support for veterinary practices and urged both the government and private sector to invest in the sector.
Highlights of the event was the recognition of three individuals who demonstrated remarkable commitment to the welfare of their pets, despite the eventual loss of their dogs.
Evangelist Dr. Bola Are was honoured for her dog, “Happy,” which spent 18 years with her family. The dog was described as a beloved part of the family, and it was noted that “Happy” was survived by her offspring. It was also reported that Mama Bola Are could not leave her house for two days after the dog passed away. She was rewarded for her dedication to caring for Happy throughout its life.
Dr. Nike Sofuluwe received recognition for her dog, “Bruno,” a lively and playful pet who spent three and a half years with her.
Ms. Titilayo Kadiri was celebrated for the exceptional medical care she provided to her dog, “Lord Lugard,” a loyal companion who lived for eight years.
While responding to her award, Ms. Kadiri expressed her heartfelt appreciation to SARP and reflected on her cherished moments with Lord Lugard.
“This recognition is deeply appreciated. Lord Lugard was more than a pet; he was a loyal companion who brought calm and joy to my life,” she said.
She also expressed her readiness to join SARP, adding, “I am inspired to join SARP to continue advocating for animal rights”
In a related development and as part of activities marking International Animal Rights Day 2024, SARP hosted a webinar titled “Ending Unnecessary Surgeries in Small Animals” to promote animal welfare and responsible pet care.
The webinar featured Professor O. D. Eyarefe, Head of the Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology at the University of Ibadan, who delved into the ethical and medical concerns surrounding unnecessary procedures, such as tail docking in dogs.
Professor Eyarefe provided insights into the context of tail docking, emphasizing its declining relevance in modern veterinary practice. He pointed out that the procedure, often performed for cosmetic reasons, poses significant risks to dog’s health and well-being.
The event drew participants from around the world, including veterinarians, non-veterinarians, and stakeholders in animal welfare.
