On Animal Welfare

Animal welfare remains a severely neglected aspect in Nigeria, particularly in the face of the current harsh economic conditions. Sadly, attention is only directed towards the well-being and health of animals when human needs have been satisfied. In offering genuine advice to individuals who hold sanity, God-fearing values, and compassion, it is essential to stress the responsibility of keeping animals within one's means.

Maintaining an abundance of animals without ensuring their basic necessities is not just an act of cruelty but is also considered a moral transgression. As people of faith, irrespective of our religious affiliations, we are called upon to care for our animals with the same dedication we extend to our family members. The teachings of various faiths emphasize the importance of providing for the needs of all living beings under our care.

In the midst of economic challenges, it is a sincere recommendation that if the prevailing circumstances hinder one from affording even the most fundamental care for animals, the responsible course of action is to consider selling them. It is unwise and unfair to blame economic hardships for the failure to meet the basic needs of animals. The obligation to care for animals extends only as far as one can reasonably provide for them.

Today, let compassion guide your decisions. Animals, like us, experience pain, hunger, and hardship. Choosing to keep only the number of animals you can adequately care for is a demonstration of responsibility and kindness. If the burden of caring for numerous animals surpasses your means, consider selling some and utilizing the proceeds to ensure the well-being of yourself and the remaining animals. Remember, it is not an act of selfishness to prioritize the welfare of those you can properly care for over maintaining an unsustainable number of animals.

I'm earnestly praying for the day when concerned authorities in Nigeria will implement initiatives akin to #ActionforAnimals, an admirable program I've observed in the United Kingdom. Such progressive steps would undoubtedly propel the cause of animal welfare forward in our nation.

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