Nigeria Tackles Indiscriminate Use of Antibiotics With a Task Force of Eminent Medics
Inaugurating the 13-member taskforce in Abuja Tuesday, the Minister of State for Health, Dr Tunji Alausa, said “Antimicrobial, AMR is a silent but deadly threat that has taken root globally, and Nigeria is no exception.
The National Taskforce on Antimicrobial Stewardship, the minister added, aims to address the indiscriminate use of antibiotics and inadequate microbial sensitivity surveillance being an issue that cuts across sectors, affecting not only human health but also animal health, agriculture and the environment.
“The consequences”, Mr Alausa emphasized, “are far-reaching, leading to increased mortality, prolonged illness, and a greater economic burden on families and the nation as a whole. It is no wonder that in 2022, the World Health Organisation declared AMR a global threat”.
Alausa said the absence of an antimicrobial stewardship programme to monitor the pattern of antimicrobial use and antimicrobial sensitivity across the various regions of the country portends a great danger that can lead to significant antimicrobial resistance issues.
The minister stated that activities will be developed around coordinating AMR surveillance and research activities in Nigeria, creating an AMR data platform, and promoting enlightenment and education on AMR.
The national coordinator and chairman of the task force, Dr Omobosola Akinsete, said the role is an opportunity to make meaningful differences in the country’s Healthcare system.