Researchers at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) in Lagos warn about rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Recent surveillance in Lagos State shows severe infections are increasingly resistant to potent antibiotics.
Dr. Emelda Chukwu, lead researcher at NIMR, highlighted concerning trends during a February media briefing. She explained that four sentinel healthcare facilities were monitored to track antibiotic resistance patterns among hospitalized patients. The findings revealed alarming resistance to third-generation cephalosporins, drugs typically reserved for severe infections.
“These reserve antibiotics are losing effectiveness across multiple facilities,” Chukwu said, describing the situation as critical. Misuse and overuse of antibiotics, she added, accelerate the spread of resistant organisms within communities. Even correct usage cannot fully protect individuals if neighbors misuse antibiotics, she warned.
The World Health Organization defines AMR as the reduced effectiveness of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites against medications. Without coordinated interventions, easily treatable infections could become difficult, or even impossible, to cure. AMR threatens decades of medical progress and limits achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3: good health and well-being.
Globally, AMR caused 1.27 million deaths directly in 2019 and contributed to nearly 5 million more. The economic impact is substantial, with the World Bank estimating up to $3.4 trillion in GDP losses annually by 2030 if trends continue.
Chukwu urged stricter regulations, public awareness campaigns, and improved antibiotic stewardship to curb resistance. Strengthening hospital monitoring systems and community education, she said, are vital to slowing AMR spread. Coordinated action can preserve antibiotic effectiveness and protect public health across Nigeria and beyond.
Addressing AMR now ensures that future generations can rely on life-saving treatments for severe infections.
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