Indigenous foot and mouth disease control methods among nomadic cattle fulanis in Adamawa state, Nigeria

ABSTRACT

This study analyzed the indigenous foot and mouth disease control methods among nomadic cattle Fulani herders in Adamawa State, Nigeria. Primary data were collected by the use of semi-structured questionnaire administered to randomly selected 363 respondents. Data collected were analyzed using percentages, frequency distribution and regression analysis. Result of the analysis of socio-economic characteristics of respondents showed that majority were above 40 years of age [87.9%], 94.5% were married and only 16.5% acquired formal education. On the average there were eight persons per household and about 80% of the respondents had more than 24 years of cattle herding experience. Twenty eight control methods were identified to be in practice among the respondents. Result of the regression analysis between socio-economic characteristics of the respondents and use of indigenous foot and mouth disease control methods showed that coefficient of age was positive and significant at 1% level, while household size and experience were positive and significant at 5% level. Deforestation and concealment of indigenous control methods by the custodians among others were found to be the constraints against the utilization of indigenous foot and mouth control methods. The study concluded that indigenous control methods were well established and practice among herders who are well experienced and knowledgeable. It is recommended that laws banning bush burning and indiscriminate tree felling be re- enforced in order to preserve indigenous herbs to avert possible extinction. There is a greater need for extension workers and services to be strengthened so as to incorporate the indigenous methods used by the herders