By James Adelabu
The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has announced plans to collaborate with regulatory bodies to ensure strict compliance with the Second National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).
The National Focal Person for human health on antimicrobial resistance and Program Manager at NCDC, Dr. Ridwan Yahaya, made during a training session on Surveillance and Prescription Support for Antimicrobial Stewardship in Abuja.
Dr. Yahaya emphasized that AMR poses a significant threat to both humans and animals, highlighting the importance of returning to the practice of dispensing antibiotics only with a prescription in hospitals and community pharmacies.
“We should revert to the principle of dispensing prescriptions. According to the national policy on drug use and antibiotics, pharmacists are not expected to dispense antimicrobials without a prescription, whether in hospitals or in the community. We are working with the relevant authorities to raise awareness and ensure that laws are enforced for better compliance.”
On his part, the Chairman of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria, Alhaja Wosilat Giwa, stressed the need for increased awareness among community pharmacists and proprietary medicine vendors regarding the rational use of antimicrobial drugs to ensure adherence to regulations.
“There is a need for accurate data collection. Proper documentation of our work is essential for making progress. By taking these steps, we can be better prepared to use medicines effectively and address resistance issues.
“We all recognize that carelessness in some areas related to antimicrobials—such as their usage, oversight, and enforcement—must decrease to reduce loss of life. With the involvement of key stakeholders and committed individuals, we can improve our approach.”
Some participants, Prof. Samuel Taiwa from Lautech Teaching Hospital in Oyo State and Ms. Bilkisu Ibrahim from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital in Bauchi State, mentioned that they gained valuable knowledge and would educate patients and health professionals about the proper use of antimicrobial drugs.
AMR occurs when germs, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi that cause infections, become resistant to the medications used to treat them.
