FG Unveils Action Plan to Fight Antimicrobial Resistance

The Federal Government has unveiled a 2nd National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and the National Genome Sequencing Plan, two policy documents that would enhance health security in Nigeria.

Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammed Pate and his counterparts in the Ministry of Environment and Agriculture and Food Security at the launch of the strategic documents in Abuja, emphasized government’s dedication to protecting citizens’ health and well-being.

They also pledged commitment to adequate implementation of the 5-year strategic plan.

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Available records show that antimicrobial resistance claimed 4.7 million lives globally in 2020.

If left unchecked, it is predicted to cause over 20 million deaths in the next 25 years, wreak economic havoc, and force up to 24 million people into extreme poverty by 2030.

This alarming projection underscores the urgency for integrated approach andcollective action.

Critical factors that contribute to Antimicrobial resistance include, irrational antibiotic use, lack of access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene,and inadequate healthcare infrastructure among others .

(Editor: Okechukwu Eze)