Lagos: The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and the Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS) have highlighted the critical challenges posed by Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), emphasizing its impact on the treatment of infections, patient protection, and effective outbreak responses. This was discussed during the Lessons Learned for Antimicrobial Resistance Workshop, organized by NAS and the U.S. National Academy of Medicine in Lagos.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites no longer respond to antimicrobial medicines, leading to infections that are more difficult or impossible to treat. This increases the risks of disease spread, severe illness, disability, and death. NCDC’s Director-General, Dr Jide Idris, noted that AMR is a daily reality that compromises public health efforts, advocating for bold, science-driven, and multisectoral action.
Dr Idris emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to addressing AMR by hosting the meeting, reflecting the growing threat that affects communities, hospitals, farms, and ecosystems. He proposed the establishment of an independent panel on evidence for action against AMR, which aims to bridge the gap between knowledge and action, ensuring evidence is trusted and acted upon.
Dr Doyin Odubanjo, Executive Secretary of NAS, described AMR as a complex problem requiring global cooperation. He underscored the need for international awareness and action to mitigate AMR, especially given the challenges posed by infectious and non-infectious diseases. The meeting aimed to gather a global delegation of experts to discuss forming an independent advisory panel on AMR to raise awareness and drive change.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that in September 2024, the United Nations General Assembly called on quadripartite organizations to establish an independent panel for evidence-based action against AMR by 2025. The panel’s mission is to facilitate the use of multi-sectoral, scientific evidence to support member states in combating antimicrobial resistance.