By Peter Omopo
30th August 2025
The Nasarawa State Government has warned that it may shut down the Lafia Modern Abattoir following concerns over poor sanitary conditions at the facility.
The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Dr. Margaret Elayo, issued the warning on Saturday after monitoring the monthly sanitation exercise in Lafia. She was represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Hussaini Babayi.
Elayo described the state of the abattoir as unacceptable, stressing that unhygienic practices at the facility pose health risks to residents. She said the ministry would intensify monitoring to ensure compliance with sanitation laws.
“The abattoir is a sensitive place because of the activities that take place there. Citizens consume whatever comes out of that place, so workers must prioritise cleanliness. We have warned that we will revisit the facility soon,” she said.
The commissioner urged butchers and abattoir operators to adopt healthier practices, adding that the government would not hesitate to take action if conditions do not improve.
She also commended traditional rulers, religious leaders, the media, and security agencies for supporting the state’s monthly sanitation exercise.
Meanwhile, the Chief Prosecuting Officer of the ministry, Abubakar Muhammad, disclosed that 86 people were apprehended across the state’s 13 Local Government Areas for violating sanitation laws.
