Stakeholders from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and development partners in Cross River State have once again converged to review the ongoing Public Health Security and Animal Health Bill 2025.
The Bill aims to provide the legal foundation for a coordinated One Health approach bridging human, animal, and environmental health and is informed by existing gaps identified in national and state-level assessments. These gaps include deficiencies in emergency preparedness, surveillance systems, gender equity considerations, and animal health regulation.
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This meeting marks a critical step toward strengthening the state’s legislative framework for preventing, detecting, and responding to public health threats, including zoonotic diseases.
In his opening address, Barr. Raymond Ekpang, Director at the Ministry of Justice, called on stakeholders to recognise their shared commitment to building a strong legal foundation for safeguarding the health of both people and livestock.
“This is an opportunity for us to review the findings, exchange ideas, and ensure that the Bill we are shaping is comprehensive, practical, and responsive to the needs of our state,” he stated.
The Ministry of Health reaffirmed that the Bill will significantly improve the state’s preparedness and response capacity in the event of health emergencies.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Chibuzor Eneh, Acting Director, Subnational Department, NCDC, highlighted that health is on the concurrent list in Nigeria, meaning states have the authority to develop their own health laws.
“To ensure legal preparedness, every state must review its laws to complement federal health regulations. Many state laws are outdated. This Bill will align with International Health Regulations (IHR), strengthen collaboration with NCDC, and improve preparedness and reporting,” he said.
Mr. Anthony Effiom, Solicitor General, Cross River State Ministry of Justice, stressed the importance of having a robust legal framework.
“A comprehensive legal framework with clear delineation of roles is critical. It will strengthen our institutional capacity and ensure no sector is left behind in the fight against public health threats.”
Key priorities of the draft Bill include:
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Establishing a legal framework for integrated surveillance, early warning, and rapid response to health emergencies.
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Establishment of a state public health laboratory.
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Strengthening regulation and monitoring of animal health to prevent zoonotic disease outbreaks.
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Defining clear roles for MDAs in emergency preparedness and response.
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Providing sustainable financing and accountability mechanisms for health security.
According to Barr. Emem Udoh, RTSL’s Senior Legal and Policy Advisor:
“Public health security is a shared responsibility. Strong public health laws are the foundation of our ability to respond quickly, coordinate effectively, and save lives. This Bill will ensure Cross River State is better prepared for any health emergency, while protecting the most vulnerable and safeguarding our economic and social stability.”
The outcomes of this meeting will directly shape the provisions of both the Public Health Security Bill 2025 and the Animal Health Bill 2025, ensuring they are practical, enforceable, and aligned with both state and national health security objectives.
Once finalized and approved by Governor Prince Bassey Otu, both Bills will be presented to the State House of Assembly for consideration and passage.
