Nigeria to Host Global Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance in December

Nigeria will host the fifth Global High-Level Ministerial Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in Abuja from December 6 to 8, 2026, with support from the World Bank. The meeting is expected to bring together ministers and experts in health, agriculture and the environment from more than 100 countries to discuss measures to reduce antimicrobial resistance.

Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, said the conference would promote joint action across human health, livestock production, agriculture and the environment. He warned that the misuse of antibiotics can make infections harder to treat, increase healthcare costs and raise the risks associated with surgery and childbirth.

The conference will focus on turning existing international commitments into practical measures, with plans to adopt the Abuja Compact on AMR. The ministers of health, agriculture, livestock development and environment also pledged to strengthen cooperation and report publicly on Nigeria’s progress.

Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, represented by Chief Veterinary Officer Abdukareem Durosunlorun, called for greater farmer education on responsible antibiotic use. He urged poultry and livestock farmers to use antibiotics only under professional prescription and observe the required withdrawal periods before selling animal products.

Meanwhile, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, represented by Iwendi Grace Odunola, said the misuse of antimicrobials threatens food safety, agricultural productivity, trade and farmers’ livelihoods.

The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, also stressed the need for proper waste management, sanitation and hygiene to prevent infections and reduce the need for antibiotics.