The inappropriate use of antibiotics in livestock production is raising concerns over the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance, which occurs when bacteria and other disease-causing organisms no longer respond to medicines used to treat infections. Health authorities warn that the problem threatens both human health and food safety, requiring coordinated action across the human health, agriculture and livestock sectors. The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, says Nigeria is committed to tackling antimicrobial resistance through stronger policies, surveillance and collaboration across sectors under the One Health approach. 

Pate also highlights childhood vaccination as an important tool in the fight against antimicrobial resistance. The government is also calling for responsible antibiotic use in livestock production, improved farm biosecurity and stronger veterinary oversight. Health experts say farmers should administer antibiotics to animals only when appropriate and under professional guidance, while members of the public should avoid self-medication and use antibiotics without a prescription when one is required.