In a bold move to tackle antimicrobial resistance (AMR), the Nigerian government has rolled out a national policy and strategic plan focusing on the environmental sector. This initiative, launched by the Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziaq Salako, marks a significant effort to address AMR, a major threat to both public health and global economic stability.
Dr. Salako highlighted the critical nature of AMR, noting that it poses a risk to countries around the world. According to the World Health Organization, AMR is one of the top ten global health threats, and the UN Environment Programme has termed it a crisis that intersects with broader environmental challenges.
The 2022 GLASS report sheds light on the alarming rise of resistance among pathogens, complicating treatments and increasing healthcare costs. Dr. Salako pointed out that without action, AMR could lead to an extra $1 trillion in healthcare expenses by 2050 and massive economic losses.
Nigeria’s strategy includes key steps like the 2020 AMR situation analysis and the 2022 launch of the Integrated National Environmental Health Surveillance System (INEHSS). These initiatives aim to gather real-time data for better decision-making and early warnings on health threats.
Effective AMR policy implementation promises significant benefits, including improved public health and productivity. The integration of AMR surveillance into INEHSS is expected to enable early detection and response, reducing disease burdens and healthcare costs.
Dr. Salako also emphasized the environmental benefits of tracking antimicrobial residues and resistance genes, which will help mitigate pollution and protect wildlife from harmful exposures.
Echoing this, Mr. Koffy Dominique of the FAO stressed the widespread impact of AMR on humans, animals, and the environment. He called for sustained action across sectors to combat this threat, aligning with FAO’s strategic framework for Nigeria. Dominique warned that AMR could cause 10 million deaths annually by 2050 if not addressed.
The new National Strategic Plan on AMR for the Environment Sector aims to generate essential data, regulate antimicrobial discharges, and set monitoring standards. This coordinated effort will strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to tackle AMR, protecting both public health and the environment.
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