Bukola Afeni
As Nigeria joins the global community to commemorate the 2025 World Antimicrobial Awareness Week, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has called for urgent, coordinated action to curb the growing threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).
The Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye represented by Dr. Gbenga Fajemirokun made the appeal during an awareness event.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve to no longer respond to antimicrobial medicines designed to kill them. This makes infections harder to treat, increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness, and death, and it is a major global health threat. It is a natural process driven by genetic changes in the microbes.
AMR develops mainly due to misuse and overuse of antimicrobials in humans, animals, and agriculture, such as unnecessary prescriptions, self-medication, poor infection control, and excessive antibiotic use in livestock
Speaking on the theme “Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future,” she emphasized that AMR is not only a medical concern but a major One Health issue affecting humans, animals, and the environment.
Prof. Adeyeye warned that the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials in hospitals, veterinary settings, agriculture, and food production continues to accelerate the emergence of resistant pathogens.
“Resistance anywhere is a threat everywhere,” she cautioned, urging stakeholders to adopt responsible practices to stem the spread.
She highlighted NAFDAC’s ongoing efforts to contain AMR through improved regulation and surveillance of antimicrobials, strengthened partnerships with farmers, veterinarians, and the livestock industry, and sustained nationwide public enlightenment campaigns aimed at promoting responsible antimicrobial use across all sectors.
The DG appreciated national and international partners, including the Fleming Fund and the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration, for supporting AMR surveillance and capacity-building initiatives in Nigeria.
She also encouraged the media to continue amplifying awareness nationwide.
Prof. Adeyeye reaffirmed NAFDAC’s commitment to leading collaborative efforts that will safeguard the country’s health security.
She urged all stakeholders to join in combating AMR, noting that acting now is essential to protect Nigeria’s present and secure a healthier future for generations to come.
