Abstract

The World Animal Protection (WAP) has so far consistently graded Nigeria deplorably on animal protection indices, as evident from its recent report of March 2020. This is principally due to lack of proper legislation regulating the incidence of animals in the Country. In this light, and while adopting the doctrinal and empirical methods of research, this paper considered the present state of affairs with respect to domestic animal welfare and control in Nigeria. It found that, though within their jurisdiction, states lack proper regulation on the subject, leading to animals being subjected to deplorable conditions, as well as animals constituting threats to public health, safety and welfare. Additionally, local councils charged with the regulation of pets have largely neglected that responsibility, due mainly to lack of funds for such activities. The research recommended that states address the issue of domestic animal welfare and control properly by enacting a comprehensive legislation and properly funding local authorities to enforce them. As a nation, Nigeria ought to support international initiatives on animal welfare in order to demonstrate to its people and the world its commitment to this humane cause.