The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has intensified its efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance in Nigeria by implementing stricter regulations and surveillance measures.

Tunde Sigbeku, deputy director and AMR-OH focal person at NAFDAC said this on Thursday in Lagos.

Mr Sigbeku spoke during a five-day training session for journalists, civil society organisations, and community-based organisations focused on AMR.

The Fleming Fund Country Grant (FFCG II) organised the training. The UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office supports the project.

Mr Sigbeku highlighted the dangers of AMR, emphasising that it poses a severe threat to human, animal, and environmental health. He said that NAFDAC had implemented several policies, including banning the use of antibiotics as growth promoters in livestock and fish production.

According to him, recognising that AMR requires a multisectoral approach.

He said that the agency had established collaborations with international and national stakeholders.

He listed such stakeholders as the World Health Organisation, the Food and Agriculture Organisation, and the Fleming Fund.

“NAFDAC is also monitoring the importation and use of human and veterinary antibiotics to ensure compliance with national regulations,” he said.

Mr Sigbeku stressed the need for continuous public awareness and collaboration with research institutions.

As Nigeria joins the global fight against AMR, he urged healthcare providers, farmers, and the general public to use antibiotics responsibly to preserve their effectiveness for future generations.

The FFCG II has been instrumental in Nigeria’s fight against AMR.

(NAN)