By Nicholas Dechi
The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), Benue Chapter, has appointed the Tor Tiv, Prof. James Ayatse, as Grand Patron of the association.
Dr Andrew Amine, NVMA Chairman, Benue chapter, formally announced the appointment during an appreciation and courtesy visit on the traditional ruler by the NVMA leadership on Tuesday in Gboko.
Amine said that the appointment was in recognition of Ayatse’s enduring contributions to the growth of veterinary education and professional practice in the state.
The chairman added that the decision to appoint Ayatse as grand patron was largely informed by his pivotal role in the establishment of the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Agriculture, Makurdi, now Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, during his tenure as vice chancellor.
He noted that the Tor Tiv had consistently used his influence and voice to promote the profession and advance public interest in animal health and food safety.
He further congratulated Ayatse on the successful resurrection and hosting of Tiv Day and for being a strong voice for the Tiv nation.
Amine prayed God to grant him wisdom throughout your reign.
The chairman expressed the association’s desire to build a strong working relationship with the Tor Tiv that would benefit Benue and Nigeria at large.
He described the visit as a potential turning point for the association.
Amine recalled the Tor Tiv’s support during the association’s bid to host a national veterinary event in Jalingo in the year 2025 and emphasised that his interview and moral weight gave them a huge edge.
The chairman explained that Benue narrowly lost the hosting right to Akwa Ibom due to stronger financial backing.
“We remain hopeful that with government support this year, Benue will secure the hosting right, which comes with significant economic benefits,” he said.
He also outlined key challenges confronting the veterinary profession in the state, including unemployment, lack of mobility, and the absence of a permanent secretariat.
Amine disclosed that fewer than 200 veterinarians were currently practising across the state.
The chairman stated that many of them were unemployed, and appealed to the Tor Tiv to advocate for the engagement of at least one veterinarian in each of the state’s 23 local government councils.
He further said that the association’s outreach activities had been constrained by transportation challenges and revealed that the NVMA currently operates from a rented apartment.
Amine expressed the need for a permanent secretariat to enhance administrative efficiency.
In his response, the Tor Tiv warmly accepted the role of grand patron and pledged unwavering support for the association.
Ayatse assured the veterinarians that they could count on him at all times, promising to do whatever was necessary to move the association forward. NAN
