Experts warn that Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a growing crisis in Nigeria, threatening public health with untreatable infections

[dropcap]H[/dropcap]ealth experts have sounded the alarm over the escalating threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in Nigeria, cautioning that it could lead to untreatable infections and a major public health crisis if urgent action is not taken.

Also read: Expert cautions against use of antibiotics to treat common cold

This warning was issued by Dr Sati Ngulukun, Director of the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI), Vom, Plateau State, during a Training and Capacity Building for Journalists and Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) on AMR Advocacy and Media Reporting held in Lagos.

The event was organised under the Fleming Fund Country Grant Phase 2, implemented by Management Sciences for Health.

Dr Ngulukun described AMR as a “silent pandemic that is silently killing people”, attributing its rise to the misuse and overuse of antibiotics.

“Many people self-medicate without proper diagnosis or prescriptions. They buy antibiotics over the counter, and if they feel better after a few doses, they stop taking the medication. This misuse helps bacteria become resistant,” he explained.

He highlighted Nigeria’s poor regulation of antibiotic access as a major contributor to the problem. “Antibiotics should not be sold over the counter.

They must only be used when prescribed by a certified doctor after laboratory tests confirm the infection,” he emphasised.

Dr Ngulukun pointed to the livestock sector as a significant contributor to AMR, noting that poultry farmers frequently administer antibiotics to chicks from day one to prevent diseases.

“Farmers should focus on strict biosecurity measures instead of using antibiotics unnecessarily,” he advised.

He stressed the importance of farm hygiene, urging workers to follow protocols such as handwashing, using disinfectants, and limiting farm access to essential personnel.

He also raised concerns about antibiotic residues in animal products like meat, milk, and eggs, explaining that failure to observe proper withdrawal periods allows these residues to enter the food chain, contributing to resistance in humans.

“Administering low doses of antibiotics to livestock often fails to kill bacteria, leading to resistance.

Even when the right dose is used later, it won’t be effective because the bacteria have already adapted,” he warned.

Dr Ngulukun urged the Nigerian government to strictly enforce existing regulations, particularly those prohibiting the sale of antibiotics without a prescription.

He emphasised the role of public awareness, stressing that many Nigerians are unaware of the dangers of AMR.

“Journalists and CBOs play a vital role in educating the public. Awareness can lead to more responsible use of antibiotics,” he said.

Dr Ngulukun acknowledged the efforts of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in ensuring drug quality but noted challenges such as porous borders and limited staff, which allow counterfeit and substandard medicines to enter the market.

“There are many fake medicines in circulation, often smuggled in illegally. These substandard drugs contribute to resistance,” he stated, urging consumers to buy antibiotics only with proper prescriptions.

Dr Ngulukun warned that even those selling fake medicines are not immune to AMR.