The World Health Organization (WHO), has called on media professionals in Nigeria to increase their efforts in raising awareness about Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), as the country prepares to launch its second National Action Plan (NAP) on AMR.
This appeal was made by Dr. Laxmikant Chavan, Technical Officer and Coordinator of the One Health initiative at WHO Nigeria, during a two-day capacity-building event for journalists focused on enhancing health reporting skills and increasing understanding of some global health issues organised by the WHO.
Dr. Chavan emphasized the critical role of the media in educating the public about the drivers of AMR, including the over prescription of antibiotics, improper completion of treatments, and the misuse of antibiotics in livestock farming.
“AMR develops through improper use of antibiotics, not only in humans but also in animals and the environment,” Dr. Chavan said.
He added that poor infection control and lack of hygiene contribute significantly to the spread of resistant pathogens.
Highlighting the national efforts, Dr. Chavan noted that Nigeria has been working on AMR since 2015, with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) leading the initiative.
“The first NAP was developed in 2017, and now, the more comprehensive National Action Plan 2.0 will be launched to further involve all sectors, including human health, animal health, and environmental health,” he added.
He underscored the necessity of evidence-based journalism, as many AMR-related stories often lack verified information.
Dr. Chavan urged journalists to commit to publishing at least one article on AMR weekly, stressing that public awareness and behavior change are crucial in the fight against the growing AMR threat.
“AMR, which occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites become resistant to the drugs commonly used to treat infections, is recognized globally as one of the biggest threats to public health,” he said.
Dr. Chavan emphasized that without urgent action, the world may face a future where simple infections become untreatable.
He also highlighted the environmental impact of AMR, pointing to the overuse of antibiotics in agriculture and its transmission through water, soil, and air.
“This is a multi-sectoral issue, the resistance developed in animals can easily spread to humans and the environment.”
As part of global efforts to combat AMR, WHO has encouraged Nigerian media outlets to join the Global AMR Media Allies (GAMA), a platform for journalists to share resources and best practices in AMR reporting.
“We need your help to elevate AMR to a national priority.
“The launch event for Nigeria’s National Action Plan 2.0 on AMR is scheduled for later this week, with key stakeholders, including the Ministers of Health, Agriculture, and Environment, expected to be in attendance.”
Dr. Chavan called on the media to be active partners in the country’s AMR response.
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