The Federal Government has officially launched Nigeria’s second National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), alongside a comprehensive National Health and Health Security Strategic Plan.
During the launch event on Friday in Abuja, Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate highlighted the country’s commitment to addressing pressing public health challenges while preparing for future threats.
Science Nigeria reports that AMR poses a significant threat to the prevention and treatment of a growing number of infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It occurs when these microorganisms evolve and no longer respond to treatments, making infections harder to manage and increasing the risks of disease spread, severe illness and death.
As a result, medicines become ineffective, leading to persistent infections that can be transmitted to others. Antimicrobials, including antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals and antiparasitics, are used to treat infections in humans, animals and plants. Microorganisms that develop resistance are often referred to as “superbugs.”
The minister acknowledged the profound impact of AMR on public health, emphasising that antimicrobial resistance poses a global crisis, with an estimated 4.7 million deaths linked to bacterial AMR in 2021 alone. He explained that resistant infections not only increase mortality rates but also drive up medical costs, complicate simple medical procedures and weaken healthcare systems.
“A coordinated, all-of-government approach is essential to tackling AMR effectively. We need robust financing mechanisms and global cooperation to support countries in implementing their national action plans, ensuring that we are prepared for the challenges ahead,” he said.
Pate also called for the establishment of an independent scientific panel on AMR, advocating for its hosting in Africa to leverage local expertise and knowledge. “The days of seeking wisdom from elsewhere should be behind us,” he asserted, stressing the importance of utilising Africa’s rich scientific resources.
He outlined the integrated approach to health that the new action plans will promote, noting that 67 per cent of antimicrobial use stems from the animal health sector. “We must succeed in human health by ensuring animal health is prioritised. Vaccination efforts in both sectors can significantly reduce the need for antimicrobials, thereby mitigating resistance,” he said.
The launch underscored the critical role of genomic surveillance in monitoring pathogens. Pate explained that by integrating genomics into the country’s AMR surveillance systems, Nigeria can better track and respond to both viral and bacterial threats. He cited recent studies that identified pathogens with pandemic potential, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced surveillance and response capabilities.
Pate expressed confidence that the implementation of these strategic plans would position Nigeria as a leader in the fight against AMR and in public health genomics. “We are committed to building a future where every Nigerian benefits from improved healthcare and stronger health security,” he declared.
Mallam Ibrahim Tanimu, director for planning and policy coordination, agriculture and food security, representing Sen. Abdullahi Aliyu, said, “Antimicrobial resistance is one of the most urgent global health, trade, and development challenges.” Aliyu emphasized that AMR is not only a global health crisis but also a threat to food security, trade and economic development, underscoring the need for coordinated international action.
Engr. Bahijjatu Abubarka, who represented Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Lawal acknowledged that AMR poses a serious threat to national and global health security, food systems and economic development. Lawal stressed the need for coordinated efforts across sectors to protect health, food security and the environment.
Director-general of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), Dr. Jide Idris said, “We will move beyond conversations and set a new standard for tackling AMR, one that prioritises implementation and drives sustainable change.” Idris emphasised the importance of shifting from discussions to concrete actions in combating AMR, focusing on long-term impact.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) representative in Nigeria, Dr. Walter Mulombo, warned that AMR could be the cause of the next pandemic if left unaddressed. He highlighted the urgency of the global threat posed by AMR and stressed the need for immediate action to prevent it from destabilising health systems, economies and sustainable development efforts worldwide.
The event was attended by key stakeholders from academia, civil society and international partners, all of whom are expected to play crucial roles in the successful implementation of these strategic plans. As Nigeria moves forward with these initiatives, the government calls for local, regional, and international support to ensure effective resource mobilisation, paving the way for a healthier future for all Nigerians.
