Nigeria to host global antimicrobial resistance conference in Abuja

Nigeria is set to host the 5th Global High-Level Ministerial Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in Abuja from December 6 to 8, 2026. This marks the first time the global event will be held on the African continent.

During a joint ministerial briefing, officials from the Ministries of Health and Social Welfare, Agriculture and Food Security, Livestock Development, and Environment called for enhanced collaboration through a ‘One Health’ approach. This strategy aims to coordinate actions across human health, animal production, food systems, and environmental management to combat drug resistance.

Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, noted that AMR is a significant public health threat, citing an estimate of 64,500 deaths in Nigeria in 2019 due to the issue. The minister highlighted efforts to strengthen antimicrobial stewardship, pharmaceutical regulation, and laboratory diagnostics, while acknowledging the need for better national surveillance.

Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, emphasized that AMR also threatens food security, agricultural productivity, and farmers’ livelihoods. He warned that the inappropriate or excessive use of antimicrobials can accelerate resistance and disrupt international trade.