FG launches action plans to combat antimicrobial resistance

The Federal Government has launched the Second National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and the National Genome Sequencing Plan in a significant step towards combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and enhancing health security in Nigeria.

These initiatives align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s health sector renewal initiative and Nigeria’s commitment to global health security.

The Minister of Health and Social Welfare,
Prof. Muhammed Ali Pate, while speaking at the launch on Friday, emphasized the government’s dedication to protecting citizens’ health and well-being.

“We are committed to transforming the healthcare system to attain Universal Healthcare Coverage for Nigerians,” he stated, highlighting the need for robust financing mechanisms and global cooperation.

The Minister also explained that the Second National Action Plan on AMR aims to mitigate the impact of antimicrobial resistance, which claimed 4.7 million lives globally in 2020.

He added that Nigeria’s proactive stance sets a precedent for regional and global cooperation.

“To enhance health security, Nigeria will strengthen its healthcare systems and promote responsible antimicrobial use.”

“The National Genome Sequencing Plan will integrate genomic technologies to enhance surveillance, detection and response to infectious diseases. Additionally, Nigeria will invest in infrastructure, workforce expansion and research innovation.”

He also disclosed that the Federal Government is committed to hosting a high-level ministerial program on AMR in the next two years, convening global experts to share knowledge and best practices.

“This program will foster regional and global cooperation in combating AMR. Antimicrobial resistance poses a significant threat to global health security, and Nigeria is taking proactive measures to address this challenge.

“The Second National Action Plan on AMR outlines strategies for improving antimicrobial stewardship, enhancing surveillance and detection capabilities, promoting research and development and strengthening healthcare systems.”

“Genomic sequencing will play a critical role in enhancing surveillance, detection and response to infectious diseases. This innovative approach enables healthcare professionals to identify and contain outbreaks more effectively.”

“Robust financing mechanisms and global cooperation are essential for effective implementation. Nigeria calls on international partners to support its efforts in combating AMR.”

“The government has committed to extensive engagement with academia, civil society and development partners to ensure successful implementation.

“This collaboration will strengthen healthcare systems, enhance surveillance and detection capabilities, promote responsible antimicrobial use and support research and development.”

“The benefits of these initiatives extend beyond Nigeria’s borders, contributing to African regional health security and the global health security agenda.”

Similarly, the World Health Organization’s Country Representative, Dr Walter Kazadi Mulombo, explained that the world has reached a critical milestone in understanding the environment’s impact on antimicrobial resistance.

He, therefore, noted that this achievement demonstrates leadership, ownership and drive to address this pressing issue.

He said, “Resistance threatens our time, economy and development. It’s a moral imperative and a career-defining challenge. If left unchecked, antimicrobial resistance may claim millions of lives and wreak economic havoc.”

“The antimicrobial resistance is predicted to cause over 20 million deaths in the next 25 years, surpassing current mortality rates. This alarming projection underscores the urgency for collective action.”

“Antimicrobial resistance is multifaceted, requiring an integrated approach. Critical factors include, irrational antibiotic use, lack of access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene, inadequate healthcare infrastructure and the imited funding for research and development.”

Mulombo further commended the NCDC, partners and stakeholders on developing Nigeria’s National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).