Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja 

The Director General of the National Agency for Food, Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, has highlighted some of the strategies being used to address the challenge posed by antimicrobial resistance in the country.

Adeyeye said the Agency’s strategy to combat AMR is rooted in the One Health approach and implemented through a comprehensive, multi-sectoral framework.

She highlighted the four key priorities that guide the NAFDAC’s effort in combatting AMR to include; strengthening regulation and surveillance, antibiotic stewardship in the community and hospitals, promoting rational use in animal care, engaging the agricultural value chain and public and professional enlightenment.

A statement signed by NAFDAC’s Resident Media Consultant Sayo Akintola said Adeyeye’s speech was presented by her Special Assistant, Dr. Gbenga Fajemirokun, at the 2025 World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW), in Lagos 

According to the NAFDAC’s boss, while antimicrobials remain indispensable tools for treating infections, their misuse and overuse have accelerated the rise of resistance, thereby compromising our ability to treat even common diseases.  

She said the Agency is intensifying oversight of both human and veterinary antimicrobials, adding that this includes curbing the circulation of substandard and falsified veterinary drugs, enforcing compliance with quality standards, and strengthening pharmacovigilance and post-marketing surveillance systems.

She further said that NAFDAC is committed to ensuring that antimicrobials for animals are used strictly under veterinary supervision, only for treatment – not for growth promotion or as a substitute for good farm practices. 

“We are working closely with the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development and the veterinary community to promote safer alternatives and ensure best practices.’

Adeyeye also said that NAFDAC is actively partnering farmers, feed producers, veterinarians, and industry stakeholders to raise awareness and promote alternatives, such as vaccines, biosecurity measures, and improved farm management practices, noting that “we are also regulating the use of antimicrobials in medicated feeds to prevent non-therapeutic use.

“Through nationwide campaigns, she said the agency is educating the public, farmers, and professionals alike. 

“Our message is simple: Responsible antimicrobial use is everyone’s responsibility. Protecting animals means protecting people – and preserving the power of antimicrobials for the future.’

Adeyeye urged healthcare professionals and veterinarians whom she described as the frontline defenders of public health to use antimicrobials judiciously and always under evidence-based guidance. 

In addition, Adeyeye urged farmers and livestock producers to adopt good animal husbandry, hygiene, and vaccination practices to reduce the need for antibiotics.

She also admonished pharmacists to dispense antimicrobials only with valid prescriptions and educate consumers on responsible use.

She advised every Nigerian to avoid self-medication, seek professional care, and demand responsibly produced food as she also urged media to continue to amplify awareness. 

Her words: “The story of AMR is one that must be told – clearly, urgently, and repeatedly.’ Prof. Adeyeye envisions a Nigeria where infections in humans and animals remain treatable, our food chain is safe, and modern medicine continues to save lives—is one we must build together. 

“That future is not assured; it must be earned through coordinated action and sustained vigilance. The NAFDAC boss reiterated that the fight against AMR will be won or lost based on our collective and coordinated efforts across the human–animal–environment interface, adding that NAFDAC remains fully committed to playing its regulatory and leadership role with integrity, diligence, and innovation.

“Let this year’s WAAW mark a renewed commitment to unity, collaboration, and sustained action. Together, let us Act Now—to protect our present and secure a healthier, safer, and more prosperous Nigeria.”

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