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FG Inaugurates Task Force To Combat Antimicrobial Resistance
The Federal Government has inaugurated a National Task Force on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Stewardship, signalling a decisive step toward combating the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance in the country.
Dr Tunji Alausa, Minister of State for Health, speaking at the inauguration in Abuja, yesterday, said that the task forcewas aimed at addressing the growing threat of AMR in the country.
The Tide source reports that AMR is a critical global health issue where infections from bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites become resistant to treatments.
It led to 4.95 million deaths globally in 2019, with 1.27 million directly attributed to AMR.
Alausa said that the task force, which comprises experts from healthcare, academia, and other relevant sectors, was set to implement a national action plan aimed at curbing the spread of AMR and safeguarding public health.
He stressed the gravity of the AMR challenge, calling it a silent but deadly threat that has profound implications for human health and also for animal health, agriculture, and the environment.
He said that Nigeria was among countries with the highest number of deaths associated with AMR
According to him, in 2019, the nation recorded 64,500 deaths directly attributable to AMR and 263,400 deaths associated with it.
“AMR deaths in Nigeria are higher than those from enteric infections, respiratory infections, tuberculosis, maternal and neonatal disorders, neglected tropical diseases, malaria, and cardiovascular diseases,” he said.
The minister also pointed out the absence of a national Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) programme to monitor the use and sensitivity patterns of antimicrobials across the country.
He said that this gap posed a significant danger, potentially leading to increased antimicrobial resistance, higher morbidity and mortality rates, and further strain on the country’s healthcare system.
He said that the task force would coordinate AMR surveillance and research activities across the country, reviewing existing data, aligning agencies, and establishing an effective nationwide surveillance system.
“An integrated digital information platform will be created to facilitate communication, coordination, and the dissemination of AMR-related information.
“The platform will support the establishment of AMS programmes in both public and private health institutions, and promote state and local government leadership in AMR surveillance and stewardship,” he said.
He said that the task force would also promote awareness of AMR among the public and healthcare providers.
According to Alausa, it will build capacity through training programmes for infectious disease physicians and pharmacists, and develop strategies to engage and train personnel at patent pharmacies.
He described the inauguration as the beginning of a coordinated and strategic response by the government to tackle AMR.
He expressed confidence that the task force, through its comprehensive and multisectoral approach, would play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of AMR in the country.
The World Health Organization (WHO) Representative in Nigeria, Dr Walter Mulombo, acknowledged key stakeholders in the fight against AMR and stressed the urgency of addressing AMR as a critical national public health issue.
Mulombo highlighted significant global resolutions and events in 2024, including the WHO strategic priorities for addressing drug-resistant bacterial infections and upcoming high-level meetings on AMR, demonstrating a global commitment to tackling the issue.
He detailed the severe health, economic, and development impacts of AMR in Nigeria, including high mortality rates, economic losses, and negative effects on sustainable development goals (SDGs).
He underscored the support from WHO and the commitment to align with Nigeria’s priorities to enhance the national AMR response, implement the National Action Plan (NAP-2.0), and support evidence-based interventions.
He underscored the critical nature of AMR, the global and local efforts to address it, and the commitment to strengthening the response.
Dr Omobosola Akinsete, National Coordinator of the Antimicrobial Stewardship Taskforce for Nigeria, said that AMR was a global public health crisis that threatened healthcare systems, including Nigeria’s.
Akinsete underscored the need for immediate action to preserve the effectiveness of antimicrobials.
She outlined the task force’s mission to coordinate efforts across different sectors to combat AMR in Nigeria.
She highlighted the importance of collaboration, data generation, and the promotion of evidence-based antimicrobial use.
According to her, there is the for a unified effort involving healthcare professionals, researchers, government agencies, and the public to address AMR and ensure a sustainable healthcare system for future generations.
She emphasised the critical importance of coordinated action against AMR in Nigeria.
Earlier, Ms Daju Kachollom, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, said that the inauguration marked a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s healthcare journey.
Kachallom said that it signalled the nation’s commitment to addressing one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time.
According to her, the task force’s work will be instrumental to guiding the country’s efforts to combat AMR and protect the health of its citizens.
She acknowledged that AMR posed a significant threat to Nigeria’s health security, economic development, and social well-being and the urgent need for a coordinated response.
She explained how the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials have accelerated the emergence of resistant microorganisms, making infections harder to treat and increasing mortality rates.
She outlined the specific challenges Nigeria faces in combating AMR.
She said that the challenges included limited access to quality healthcare, inadequate surveillance and monitoring, poor infection prevention and control practices, and the misuse of antimicrobials in both human and animal health.
The Tide source recalls that In Nigeria, AMR is responsible for 64,500 deaths, disproportionately affecting children under five.
The primary drivers of AMR include improper use of antimicrobials, poor prescription practices, circulation of substandard drugs, and inadequate sanitation.
The Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress Christian Leaders Forum has expressed strong confidence in the capacity of All Progressives Congress (All Progressives Congress) candidates in the state to deliver effective governance if elected into office in the coming elections.
The State Coordinator of the forum, Archbishop Lucky Aroh, made this known during a breakfast and thanksgiving meeting held in Port Harcourt, where leaders gathered to pray for the stability of the party and the safety of its candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.According to him, the meeting was convened to seek divine intervention for peace, unity, and security among APC candidates across Rivers State.
“Today we are praying for APC stability in Rivers State and the security of our candidates that have been elected to contest the 2027 elections. It is a breakfast meeting,” Aroh said.
He further expressed optimism that the party’s candidates would not disappoint the people if entrusted with leadership responsibilities.
“They will not fail when elected into office. We are here as fathers of the land to let them know, and I must tell you the truth that these are the authentic people that will do well in Rivers State,” he added.
Speaking earlier, the National Chairman of the forum, Professor Olanrewaju Abraham, commended the Rivers State chapter for organizing the programme, noting that the national body of the forum believes strongly in the power of prayer.
He stated that political leadership provides an opportunity to influence society positively, including advancing moral and spiritual values, while expressing confidence that APC candidates at all levels would emerge victorious in the upcoming elections.
Also speaking, the Rivers State Women Leader of the APC, Hon. Darling Amadi, praised the forum for its commitment to prayers for peace, stability, and the protection of party candidates.
Represented by the Deputy Women Leader of the party in the state, she described the initiative as commendable and urged other political and support groups within the party to emulate the gesture in promoting unity and stability.
By: John Bibor, Menebe Emmanuel & Fortune Paibi
Prominent businessman and philanthropist, Elder Anthony Osagwe-Ogo, was celebrated in grand style as he marked his 70th birthday anniversary, with distinguished Nigerians, business leaders, and golf enthusiasts gathering to honour his remarkable contributions to society.
The colourful celebration took place at the Port Harcourt Golf Club, where friends, associates, and well-wishers converged to pay tribute to the revered elder statesman.
Chairman of the occasion, High Chief (Dr.) Ikenna Okafor, described the celebrant as a detribalised Nigerian whose generosity, humility, and commitment to humanity have earned him admiration across different communities and backgrounds.
According to Dr. Okafor, Pa Osagwe-Ogo’s impact on society and the development of his community remains unparalleled. He noted that members of the golfing community are proud to be associated with a father figure who consistently promotes the welfare and well-being of those around him.
He further stated that the history and growth of the Port Harcourt Golf Club cannot be told without acknowledging the significant role played by the celebrant, whose wisdom, encouragement, and leadership have helped sustain the club over the years.
“We are here to celebrate a man who has impacted humanity positively, a peace-loving individual and an epitome of hope for the younger generation. We pray to emulate his virtues. Today, we celebrate a bridge-builder, a trailblazer, and an iconic leader whose life continues to inspire many,” Dr. Okafor said.
He expressed delight at the large turnout of guests from various walks of life, describing it as a testament to the respect and affection Pa Osagwe-Ogo commands within and beyond Rivers State.
In his response, the celebrant, Pa Anthony Osagwe-Ogo, expressed profound gratitude to God for preserving his life and granting him the privilege of attaining the milestone age of 70.
He also thanked members of the Port Harcourt Golf Club, family members, friends, and associates for identifying with him during the celebration and for their unwavering support over the years.
The event featured the cutting of the birthday cake, presentation of awards to deserving members of the club, goodwill messages, and moments of celebration among guests.
The ceremony was attended by notable personalities from the business community, the golfing fraternity, and other sectors, all of whom joined in celebrating the life and legacy of the respected elder statesman.
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and the Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr. Honour Kuru Sirawoo, have been honoured with awards of recognition in connection with the 2026 Democracy Day celebrations held in Port Harcourt.
The awards, which formed part of activities marking Nigeria’s Democracy Day on June 12, were formally presented on Tuesday at the Ministry of Information and Communications in Port Harcourt.
Presenting the awards was Hon. Abdul Hameed Oladipupo Alli, popularly known as “Mr. Nigeria,” Publisher of Asiwaju Trumpet Magazine and Achievers World International Magazine.
Governor Fubara was recognised for his efforts in sustaining peace, stability, and a conducive political atmospherJohn Bibor / Menebe Emmanuel / Fortune Paibie in Rivers State. The organisers noted that his administration has fostered harmony and strengthened civic participation across the state.
Dr. Sirawoo, on the other hand, was honoured for his exemplary administrative leadership and significant contributions to effective information management within the Ministry of Information and Communications.
Representing Dr. Sirawoo at the presentation ceremony, Dr. Christian Davies received the award on his behalf and expressed gratitude for the recognition. He described the honour as a reflection of Dr. Sirawoo’s unwavering commitment to professionalism, excellence, and dedicated public service.
Dr. Davies assured the organisers that the award would be formally conveyed to the Permanent Secretary.
The event also featured the presentation of commemorative publications highlighting major governance and civic milestones in Rivers State, including Easter celebrations, Workers’ Day activities, the Governor’s third anniversary in office, and Democracy Day programmes.
Organisers of the awards commended the Rivers State administration for what they described as sustained peace, political stability, and improved civic engagement, noting that these achievements have contributed significantly to the state’s continued development.
By: Jessica Sambol
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