Experts have raised alarms over the growing threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), warning that it could lead to untreatable infections and a public health crisis if urgent action is not taken.
This caution was given by the Director, National Vetinary Research Institute (NVRI), VOM, Plateau State, Dr. Sati Ngulukun during a Training and Capacity Building for Journalists and Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) on AMR Advocacy and Media Reporting held in Lagos, Nigeria.
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The training was organized under the Fleming Fund Country Grant Phase 2, implemented by Management Sciences for Health.
Dr. Ngulukun who explained that AMR occurs when bacteria develop resistance to antibiotics, often due to the misuse and overuse of these drugs described AMR as a “silent pandemic that is silently killing people.”
“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,” Dr. Ngulukun said.
He said in Nigeria, access to antibiotics is poorly regulated, making the problem worse. “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 emphasized.
Dr. Ngulukun also pointed to the livestock sector as a significant contributor to AMR, highlighting the common practice of poultry farmers giving antibiotics to chicks from day one to prevent diseases. “Farmers should focus on strict biosecurity measures instead of using antibiotics unnecessarily”. He advised.
Poor farm hygiene was identified as a major issue. “Farm workers should follow hygiene protocols, such as washing hands, using disinfectants, and wearing clean clothes, farms should limit access to essential personnel to prevent infection entry”. He said.
Antibiotic residues in animal products, such as meat, milk, and eggs, were also flagged as a concern. Dr. Ngulukun explained that when farmers do not observe proper withdrawal periods, these residues enter the food chain and contribute to resistance in humans.
He added that 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.
To combat AMR, Dr. Ngulukun called for stronger enforcement of existing regulations. “The government must enforce regulations that prohibit the sale of antibiotics without prescriptions, both for humans and animals”. He said.
He emphasized the importance of public awareness, noting 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 highlighted the role of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in ensuring drug quality, however, he acknowledged challenges such as porous borders and limited staff, which allow fake 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 said, urging consumers to only buy antibiotics with proper prescriptions.
He also warned that sellers of fake medicines are not immune to the dangers of AMR. “If they fall ill and use substandard drugs, their lives could be at risk. Everyone must do their part”. He stated.
Dr. Ngulukun called for a collective action. “AMR is a threat to everyone. It takes a united effort to combat it, by making responsible choices, we protect ourselves and our communities”. He said.
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