Dr Tunji Alausa Launches National Taskforce to Combat Deadly Antimicrobial Resistance in Nigeria

The Federal Government has launched the National Taskforce on Antimicrobial Stewardship to combat the widespread misuse of antibiotics and the lack of adequate microbial sensitivity monitoring.

During the inauguration of the 13-member taskforce in Abuja on Tuesday, the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Tunji Alausa, highlighted Nigeria’s alarming ranking in deaths linked to antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

According to him, “Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a silent but deadly threat that has taken root globally, and Nigeria is no exception. It is an issue that cuts across sectors, affecting not only human health but also animal health, agriculture and the environment.

“The consequences are far-reaching, leading to increased mortality, prolonged illness and greater economic burden on families and the nation as a whole. It is no wonder, that in 2022 WHO declared AMR a global threat.

“Our country, is ranked high in the number of deaths associated with AMR. In 2019, there were 64,500 deaths attributable to AMR and 263,400 deaths associated with AMR, making AMR deaths in Nigeria higher than deaths from enteric infections, respiratory infections and tuberculosis, maternal and neonatal disorders, neglected tropical diseases and malaria, and cardiovascular diseases.

“Addressing the factors that promote AMR and those that worsen its impact, can be challenging and requires both a multisectoral coordination and dedicated sector-specific approaches.”

Dr Alausa further noted that in 2019, Nigeria recorded 64,500 deaths directly attributable to AMR and 263,400 deaths related to it.

These figures surpass deaths from enteric infections, respiratory infections, tuberculosis, maternal and neonatal disorders, neglected tropical diseases, malaria, and cardiovascular diseases.

He emphasized that addressing the factors contributing to AMR requires coordinated efforts across various sectors and dedicated approaches specific to each sector.

“Currently we do not have an AMS programme to monitor pattern of antimicrobial use and antimicrobial sensitivity across the various regions of our country.

“This portends a great danger for us, that can lead to significant antimicrobial resistance issues, which would contribute to high morbidity, mortality and stretch our overdependent hospital system further.

“This is what necessitated the setting up of this taskforce, to have a national oversight to monitor and help provide guidance across the nation on antimicrobial use that will be based on sensitivity results for prudent antimicrobial usage.

Dr. Omobosola Akinsete, the national coordinator and chairperson of the task force, expressed that this role offers an opportunity to make a substantial impact on Nigeria’s healthcare system.

She described AMR as a global public health crisis that threatens the very foundation of healthcare.

“AMR affects everyone—patients, healthcare providers, systems, and communities,” Dr. Akinsete said.

“As we advance in our fight against infectious pathogens, it’s crucial to use antimicrobials only when necessary, ensuring that patients receive the correct dosage of effective and safe antibiotics for the shortest time possible with minimal harm.”

Ms Daju Kachollom, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health, highlighted that the inauguration of the Taskforce on Antimicrobial Stewardship marks a critical milestone in Nigeria’s healthcare journey, reflecting the nation’s commitment to tackling one of its most pressing public health challenges.

Kachollom pointed out that the task force’s work is vital in guiding Nigeria’s efforts to combat AMR and safeguard the health of its citizens. She acknowledged the significant threat AMR poses to the nation’s health security, economic development, and social well-being, underscoring the need for a coordinated response.

She explained that the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials have accelerated the rise of resistant microorganisms, complicating treatment and increasing mortality rates.

Kachollom also outlined the specific challenges Nigeria faces in addressing AMR, such as limited access to quality healthcare, inadequate surveillance, poor infection prevention and control practices, and the misuse of antimicrobials in both human and animal health.