Analysis of Zoonotic Disease Surveillance Data from Selected States in North Central Nigeria

Effective zoonotic disease control depends on timely and accurate surveillance data, yet the quality and completeness of surveillance systems in north-central Nigeria have not been systematically evaluated. This study analyzed zoonotic disease surveillance data from Niger, Benue, Nassarawa, Kogi, and Kwara States in North Central Nigeria over the period 2018 to 2023. A mixed-methods design was employed. Surveillance reports from state veterinary and public health departments were obtained and analyzed for completeness, timeliness, and disease coverage. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 state-level surveillance officers. The analysis focused on reportable zoonotic diseases including rabies, brucellosis, anthrax, and avian influenza. Findings revealed inconsistent reporting formats across states, with an average annual completeness rate of 54.7% for required surveillance variables. Timeliness, measured as submission within the required reporting week, averaged 46.3%. Anthrax and Q fever were absent from surveillance reports in all five states despite clinical evidence of occurrence. Cross-sector data sharing between veterinary and human health surveillance units occurred in only two states. The study concludes that zoonotic disease surveillance in north-central Nigeria is fragmented and insufficient. Recommendations include harmonization of reporting formats, digital surveillance platform adoption, joint veterinary-human health reporting mechanisms, and investment in laboratory confirmation capacity at the state level. Keywords: zoonotic disease surveillance, North Central Nigeria, disease reporting, One Health, surveillance quality