The Federal Government has launched the National Taskforce on Antimicrobial Stewardship, a 13-member team dedicated to tackling the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Nigeria. The inauguration took place in Abuja on Tuesday, with the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Tunji Alausa, highlighting the urgent need to address the indiscriminate use of antibiotics and the lack of comprehensive microbial sensitivity surveillance.
Dr. Alausa emphasized the severity of AMR as a global and national crisis, noting that Nigeria ranks high in deaths associated with AMR. In 2019 alone, Nigeria recorded 64,500 deaths directly attributable to AMR and 263,400 deaths related to the issue, surpassing fatalities from other significant health challenges like enteric and respiratory infections, tuberculosis, malaria, and cardiovascular diseases.
“AMR is a silent but deadly threat that has taken root globally, and Nigeria is no exception,” Dr. Alausa stated. He warned that the absence of a robust antimicrobial stewardship program in the country poses a significant danger, potentially leading to heightened antimicrobial resistance, increased morbidity, and mortality, further straining Nigeria’s healthcare system.
The newly established task force is tasked with national oversight, providing guidance on antimicrobial usage based on sensitivity results to ensure prudent use of antibiotics. It will also support research, surveillance, and the development of a national AMR data platform, alongside promoting public education and awareness on the dangers of AMR.
Dr. Omobosola Akinsete, the national coordinator and chair of the task force, described AMR as a global public health crisis threatening the very foundations of healthcare systems. She underscored the importance of using antimicrobials responsibly, ensuring that patients receive the right dosage for the shortest time necessary to minimize harm.
“This task force is about bringing the fight to the patients and ensuring that antimicrobials are used only when needed, with the appropriate dosage,” Akinsete explained.
The Mandate Secretary for Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Federal Capital Territory Administration, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, praised the minister’s efforts and pledged to collaborate with the task force to achieve its goals. Dr. Babagana Adams, who represented Fasawe, reiterated the commitment of the FCT Administration to support the task force’s initiatives in improving healthcare across the country.
