The Lagos State Government has launched Nigeria’s first Tele-Veterinary Call Centre to expand access to real-time animal health support for farmers and pet owners nationwide.
Eko Hot News reports that the innovation was unveiled at the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems Animal Hospital, Oko-Oba, Agege.
Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Abisola Olusanya, said the project was achieved through a partnership with Etsu Digital Nigeria Ltd.
She noted that the initiative aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to using technology to improve agricultural efficiency and protect public health.
Olusanya explained that farmers and pet owners often struggle to access timely veterinary care, especially in remote communities.
She stressed that the Tele-Veterinary Call Centre provides a practical solution by offering certified veterinary support via mobile phones.
According to her, the platform complements two existing mobile services—M-Agric and M-Health—available on the MTN and Glo networks.
She said both services can be accessed by dialling *20791#, allowing subscribers to receive expert tips and veterinary guidance.
Olusanya added that the new call centre extends these services by offering live, real-time support from Lagos State Veterinary Consultants.
She stated that the centre operates 24/7 and provides emergency assistance, first-aid instructions, disease-prevention advice and professional veterinary guidance.
The Commissioner noted that the service is free for active M-Agric and M-Health subscribers, with new users able to access support for as low as ₦100 per day.
She said the platform reduces barriers such as long travel distances, clinic queues and high emergency costs.
Olusanya described Tele-VET as a strategic tool for safeguarding public health and strengthening food safety across the agricultural sector.
She added that the platform supports the global One World, One Health framework by limiting zoonotic disease transmission.
According to her, the centre will improve animal survival rates, enhance disease reporting and expand access to veterinary expertise.
She said it will also strengthen data collection for policy planning and support field operations across Lagos.
Olusanya noted that the service will benefit farmers and pet owners from Ikorodu to Epe, Surulere to Agege and across Nigeria.
