This review highlights issues on animal welfare and ethics in Nigeria. While these concepts are well developed and practised in other parts of the world, it is yet to take off in Nigeria. The review indicates that animal welfare is a situation in which the animal is in complete psychological and physical health. Domesticated or captured animals should be provided with adequate feed and water regularly. Animals in custody of the handlers should be free from fear, beating, torture, pain, suffering and cruelty. Good housing and healthcare services for animals are expected to be proper. Well-being and comfort of animals on the farm, during transport, at market and in confinement are priority areas for animal welfare. Getting animals accustomed to people makes them calm and easier to handle.