ABSTRACT
The current COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the agricultural value chains in Nigeria to economic uncertainties with the livestock sector at the receiving end of the impact of the accompanying effects. The present study assessed the extent of the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on livestockfarmers. Aweb-based cross-sectional online questionnaire survey was conducted in randomly selected 12 States in Nigeria. Data gathered through the questionnaire included;respondents' demographic characteristics, knowledge and attitude regarding COVID-19 pandemic, extent of impact of the pandemic, farm activities severely affected and mitigation efforts made by the affected livestock farmers. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency count, percentage, mean and confidence interval set at p<0.05. This study revealed that majority (73%) of the livestock farmers were aware of COVID-19 pandemic, 66% practiced intensive farming system while 62% were into poultry production. Knowledge and attitude of livestock farmers regarding COVID-19 revealed that 86% of the respondents believed that COVID-19 did not have a specific drug for treatment, 97% agreed with the principle of hand washing, 70% had hand washing stations on their farms while 59% believed that animals could be infected with the disease. Of the extent of the impact of COVID-19, 42% claimed to have had high blood pressure, 80% lacked funds to run their farms while 27% witnessed the loss of loved ones, 86% of the farmers were severely affected in marketing of their products and services;72%, 52% and 72% were affected in restocking, farm cleaning and transportation, respectively. As a result of the pandemic, 39% sought for loans and reduced labour, 24% stopped payment of salaries while 23% reduced the quantity and quality of feeds given to their animals. The present study highlighted the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the livestock industry in Nigeria. Therefore, concerted efforts to ensure the survival of the livestock industry must be put in place by individuals and the government at large to salvage current situation and emergency preparedness protocol should be put in place in case of future occurrence.