The alarming rise of antibiotics resistance in humans and animals in Nigeria has prompted a call to action from Professor Ndubueze Amaechi, a renowned Professor of Veterinary Microbiology. According to Amaechi, diseases are developing complex mechanisms to evade drugs, making treatment increasingly challenging. This warning was sounded during the 59th Inaugural Lecture at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, where Amaechi also cautioned against the improper administration of feeds and drugs in poultry and farms.
The microbial communities, Amaechi explained, have become notoriously difficult to eradicate from their hosts in both humans and animals due to the sophisticated mechanisms developed by these microbes. Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR) has emerged as a significant threat to global public health in recent years, prompting interventions to mitigate this threat. One such intervention is the introduction of novel drugs with innovative mechanisms into the market. However, Amaechi emphasized the need for regulating antibiotics usage on both local and global scales, advocating for the adoption of biosecurity measures in poultry farms.
A concerning trend, according to Amaechi, is the indiscriminate administration of antibiotics to animals by farmers, abattoir operators, and pet owners in Nigeria without the oversight of certified veterinarians. This practice poses a significant risk to human health, as the misuse of antibiotics accelerates the development of resistant microorganisms. Furthermore, individuals taking or repeating certain drugs may not achieve the desired outcomes, unaware that the microbes have developed substantial resistance.
To combat this growing concern, Amaechi urged the Federal Government to provide increased support to researchers for the development of alternative drugs derived from natural medicinal plants. This call to action aims to address the pressing issue of antibiotics resistance, which has far-reaching implications for public health, both in Nigeria and globally. As the world grapples with the challenges of AMR, it is essential to adopt a multi-faceted approach, encompassing responsible antibiotics usage, innovative research, and stringent regulation to mitigate the threat posed by this emerging health crisis.
