A public health expert has urged the Nigerian government to enhance laboratory and surveillance systems to effectively combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Dr. Gabriel Adakole highlighted that this growing public health threat endangers lives and undermines global health security.
In an interview with journalists over the weekend in Abuja, Adakole explained that AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve to resist drugs designed to kill them. This resistance makes infections harder to treat, leading to prolonged illnesses, increased medical costs, and higher mortality rates.
“The World Health Organisation (WHO) has identified AMR as one of the top global health threats, warning that if left unchecked, common infections and minor injuries could once again become fatal,” he stated.
Adakole pointed out that in Nigeria, the misuse and overuse of antibiotics in humans, animals, and agriculture have accelerated the spread of drug-resistant pathogens. He noted that weak surveillance and laboratory systems hinder the country’s ability to effectively detect, track and respond to AMR cases.
To tackle this challenge, he emphasized the need for the Nigerian government to invest in robust laboratory infrastructure, strengthen disease surveillance and promote responsible antibiotic use across all sectors.
“This vital tool enhances laboratory and surveillance systems, ensuring we stay ahead in the fight against antimicrobial resistance within the One Health framework. Every step forward brings us closer to a safer and healthier world,” the expert remarked.
According to him, the One Health approach – which integrates human, animal, and environmental health strategies – is crucial for curbing AMR.
“Strengthening laboratory and surveillance systems will enable Nigeria to detect resistant infections early, improve treatment outcomes and prevent the further spread of superbugs,” he added
He urged stakeholders, including government agencies, research institutions, and global health organisations, to collaborate on developing policies that support antimicrobial stewardship and ensure sustainable funding for laboratory capacity and surveillance infrastructure.
As Nigeria continues to battle infectious diseases, experts warn that failing to take action against AMR could render lifesaving antibiotics ineffective, posing a severe threat to public health and economic stability.
“Strengthening surveillance and laboratory systems is not just an option; it is an urgent necessity,” he concluded.
Science Nigeria reports that AMR is a growing global health threat, contributing to approximately 1.27 million deaths annually and indirectly causing nearly 5 million additional deaths. Projections suggest that by 2050, AMR could result in 1.91 million deaths per year, totaling around 39 million deaths over the next 25 years.
This resistance undermines modern medicine, making common infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of complications during routine procedures. To address this issue, experts call for stronger antimicrobial stewardship, improved surveillance and increased investment in research to develop new antibiotics.
Without urgent action, the world risks reverting to a pre-antibiotic era, where even minor infections could become life-threatening.
