As fresh outbreaks of African Swine Fever (ASF) heighten concerns across parts of Nigeria, Leadway Assurance has urged pig farmers to immediately strengthen biosecurity measures, warning that prevention remains the only effective defence against the highly contagious livestock disease.
The insurer said the viral disease, which affects pigs but poses no danger to humans, has no approved treatment or commercially available vaccine, making strict farm hygiene and disease prevention practices essential for protecting livestock and farmers’ investments.
Prevention Better Than Compensation
Leadway, through its Agricultural Risk Solutions team, issued a comprehensive advisory recommending that farmers:
Restrict access to pig farms.
Quarantine newly introduced animals.
Improve cleaning and disinfection procedures.
Closely monitor pigs for signs of illness.
Promptly report suspected cases to veterinary authorities.
The company stressed that these measures could significantly reduce the risk of infection and limit devastating outbreaks capable of wiping out entire herds.
Insurance Alone Is Not Enough
Speaking on the growing threat, Ayoola Fatona, Global Head of Agricultural Risk Solutions at Leadway Assurance, said proactive risk management is the first line of defence for livestock farmers.
According to him, while insurance provides financial protection after losses occur, preventing disease outbreaks should remain every farmer’s top priority.
He noted that African Swine Fever can spread rapidly through pig populations, causing high mortality rates and severe financial losses within a short period.
Fatona added that investing in stronger biosecurity today would help farmers protect their businesses, ensure operational continuity and support the long-term sustainability of Nigeria’s livestock industry.
Building Resilient Farms
Leadway said its role extends beyond underwriting agricultural risks to helping farmers build resilience through expert advisory services, risk improvement initiatives and continuous engagement.
The insurer also reminded policyholders of their obligation to maintain proper biosecurity standards and comply with statutory disease-control regulations as part of responsible farm management.
Awareness Campaigns Planned
To improve preparedness across the livestock sector, Leadway said it would intensify awareness programmes through radio broadcasts, webinars, community town hall meetings and partnerships with key agricultural stakeholders.
The company explained that the initiative is aimed at increasing disease awareness, promoting preventive practices and strengthening the resilience of Nigeria’s agricultural sector against emerging livestock diseases.
Why It Matters
The renewed warning comes at a critical time for Nigeria’s livestock industry, where disease outbreaks continue to threaten food security, rural livelihoods and agricultural investments. With no cure or vaccine currently available for African Swine Fever, experts agree that strict biosecurity remains the most effective strategy for limiting its spread and protecting pig farmers from catastrophic economic losses.
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