Bird Flu Watch: New initiative to fight avian influenza in Nigeria

NIGERIA – A new digital initiative, Bird Flu Watch, is under development by a team of researchers and entrepreneurs from Nigeria and Wales. 

The platform, aimed at safeguarding smallholder poultry farmers and farms against avian influenza, combines expert insights, real-time data, and best practices to mitigate risks associated with the disease.

Tackling a longstanding challenge

Nigeria was the first African country to confirm an outbreak of avian influenza in January 2006, with initial cases reported in Kaduna State. A year later, the virus crossed into the human population, claiming the life of a 22-year-old woman in Lagos State.

A 2023 study revealed the financial vulnerability of the sector, estimating losses of US$245 million (₦184 billion) from an outbreak infecting 10% of the commercial bird population. 

Severe outbreaks could escalate losses to US$700 million (₦526 billion), highlighting the urgent need for proactive measures.

Poultry is a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy and food security, accounting for 33% of total protein consumption and contributing 25% to agricultural GDP. Yet, surveys show that only 60% of farmers are aware of bird flu, and fewer than 16% understand its potential to spread to humans.

Enhancing awareness and disease management

The Bird Flu Watch app, supervised by Dr. Edore Akpokodje, a computer science lecturer at Aberystwyth University, seeks to fill critical knowledge gaps. 

“Poultry is essential for the economy and food security in Nigeria, providing a crucial source of animal protein and vital resources for low-income households,” said Akpokodje.

The platform will offer expert advice, surveillance data, and biosecurity practices while ensuring accessibility through offline capabilities. 

With increasing rural connectivity and smartphone adoption, Akpokodje believes this tool could transform disease management and ensure the sustainability of Nigeria’s poultry industry.

Ground-level engagement and development

The Neglected Disease Eradication Campaign, a Nigerian NGO, will lead the awareness drive. Campaign Manager and MSc parasitology graduate from Aberystwyth University, Samson Omeiza Balogun, emphasized the importance of innovation: 

“Empowering farmers with knowledge and resources is crucial to preventing the spread of avian influenza, and innovation is key to ensuring we leave no one behind,” he said.

The app is being developed in partnership with Omeva Consulting, a Namibian firm specializing in data-driven solutions for smallholder farmers. Its design will be informed by input from farmers, private stakeholders, and public sector representatives.

Data-driven solutions backed by international support

The initiative will begin with a comprehensive national survey to assess current farming practices, awareness levels, and understanding of avian influenza among smallholders. This data-driven approach aims to tailor solutions to the specific needs of farmers.

Funding for the Bird Flu Watch project comes from the Transformative Research Challenge, organized by the World Food Forum in collaboration with the FAO UN and Wageningen University & Research. 

The challenge supports innovative research that addresses zoonotic diseases through holistic approaches.

Between 2021 and 2022, Nigeria reported 467 outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) across 31 of its 37 administrative regions, underscoring the urgent need for a comprehensive disease management strategy.

By leveraging cutting-edge technology, this initiative aims to protect Nigeria’s poultry sector, a vital economic and nutritional lifeline for millions.