The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has highlighted the emerging threat of
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), where bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites lose their responsiveness
to antimicrobials.
Dr Ifedayo Adetifa, the Director General of NCDC, conveyed this concern on Monday in Abuja during the
commemoration of World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW). The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN),
reports that AMR is responsible for 1.27 million deaths annually, with an additional 3.7 million deaths
associated with its effects.
Dr Ifedayo Adetifa, the Director General of NCDC, conveyed this concern on Monday in Abuja during the
commemoration of World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW). The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN),
reports that AMR is responsible for 1.27 million deaths annually, with an additional 3.7 million deaths
associated with its effects.
He advised against sharing or using leftover antibiotics, emphasizing proper disposal and consistent
hand hygiene. Highlighting the economic and health system impact, Adetifa stated that up to $100
trillion of global GDP could be lost due to AMR by 2050, with the most significant negative impact on low
and middle-income countries.
He urged collaboration across sectors, emphasising a one-health approach to combat AMR effectively.
“Despite Nigeria’s efforts, the recent joint external evaluation rated the country with an average score
of 2.4 out of 5, indicating the need for more action.
“To mark WAAW 2023, NCDC, ministries, agencies, and partners are conducting various activities,
including press briefings, social media campaigns, Sensitisation in health facilities, and awareness
campaigns among school children,” he said.
He, however, said that the Federal Government remained committed to the global response against
AMR, advocating for the responsible use of antimicrobials guided by a one-health approach.
