Antibiotic Resistance in Nigeria: Prevalence, Data and 2026 Trends
Pick any pharmacy counter across Nigeria and observe the transactions for an hour. The pharmacist…
NIGERIA HAS A UNIFIED RESPONSE TO FIGHT ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE
The Government agency charged with fighting Antimicrobial Resistance in Nigeria is the Nigeria Center for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC). Fighting antimicrobial resistance in Nigeria needs joint action between the government, non-governmental agencies, health care agencies, and the public.
NNAST
NNAST stands for Nigeria National Antimicrobial Stewardship Technical Working Group. This Taskforce was inaugurated in August 2024 by the Hon. Minister of Health, Dr. Muhammad Pate, and the then Hon. Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Tunji Alausa. It was formed to help Nigeria combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
NNAST began with a single goal: to halt the rise of drug-resistant infections. It was established by health leaders who recognized the growing problem and wanted a way to help facilitate and accelerate the impactful processes already underway in the country. The group brings together experts from various fields, including public health, clinical laboratories, non-governmental organizations, hospitals, education, and the government. These members work closely with the Nigerian Center for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).
Our Role
NNAST plays a key role in Nigeria’s AMR response.
- We strive to act as a bridge between AMR policy, implementation, research, education, technology, healthcare facilities in Nigeria, and the Public.
- We will help review and implement the policies outlined in the Nigerian National Action Plan (NAP) for Antimicrobial Resistance, ensuring they are effective in real-world applications. This will involve ensuring that all AMR plans are based on real and evidence-based data, as well as the public health needs of Nigerians.
- We collaborate with partners to advance national initiatives promoting the safe use of antibiotics, provide guidance to hospitals and clinics, and enhance laboratory systems for detecting resistant organisms.
- We support health education campaigns and training programs.
- All our work helps slow the rise of superbugs. As a national task force, NNAST will try to ensure Nigeria stays on track in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.
GLOBAL AND NATIONAL ACTION PLANS
Many countries now treat AMR as a threat. The World Health Organization leads these global AMR efforts. They set plans and support each country’s work. Nigeria has joined this fight as well. The country launched a national AMR plan in 2017, National Action Plan (NAP). The current version of the plan is NAP 2.0. There are still gaps in tracking resistance patterns. More training and better labs are also needed but progress is happening step by step. Nigeria’s efforts will protect millions if done right. Strong leadership and funding can push it forward.
Key Features Of NAP 2.0
- Antimicrobial resistance surveillance & Detection
- Infection Prevention & Control
- Public Awareness
- Access to Diagnostics
- Capacity Building
- Research & Development
- Healthcare System Strengthening
NNAST plays a key role in Nigeria’s AMR response. We strive to act as a bridge between AMR policy, implementation, research, education, technology, healthcare facilities in Nigeria, and the Public. We will help review and implement the policies outlined in the Nigerian National Action Plan (NAP) for Antimicrobial Resistance, ensuring they are effective in real-world applications. This will involve ensuring that all AMR plans are based on real and evidence-based data, as well as the public health needs of Nigerians. We collaborate with partners to advance national initiatives promoting the safe use of antibiotics, provide guidance to hospitals and clinics, and enhance laboratory systems for detecting resistant organisms. We support health education campaigns and training programs. All our work helps slow the rise of superbugs. As a national task force, NNAST will try to ensure Nigeria stays on track in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.
ABOUT US
Who We Are
NNAST stands for Nigeria National Antimicrobial Stewardship Technical Working Group. It was formed to help Nigeria fight antimicrobial resistance. The group brings together experts from public health, labs, hospitals, and the government. These members work closely with the NCDC and other health bodies.
NNAST started with one goal—stop the rise of drug-resistant infections. It was set up by health leaders who saw the growing problem. Now, NNAST leads national efforts to guide safe antibiotic use. It acts as a bridge between healthcare and policy. The team ensures all plans are based on real data and public health needs.
Our Mission
The mission of NNAST is simple—slow down the spread of AMR in Nigeria. We help guide the safe use of antibiotics in all sectors. Our work follows global health rules by the WHO and local plans by the NCDC. NNAST supports hospitals, labs, and clinics to follow better practices. We work to stop misuse of antibiotics. We also help set standards for doctors, nurses, and pharmacists. We aim to reduce antimicrobial resistance step by step. NNAST also helps train health workers and raise public awareness on AMR.
Our Role
NNAST plays a key role in Nigeria’s AMR response. We guide how hospitals and clinics use antibiotics. We support better lab systems to detect resistance. We help write the National Action Plan (NAP 2.0 AMR) and make sure it works in real life. Our group connects government, health workers, and the public. NNAST also reviews drug policies and treatment rules. We support health education campaigns and training programs. All our work helps slow the rise of superbugs. As a national task force, NNAST ensures Nigeria stays on track in the fight against antimicrobial resistance. We help shape the country’s response to AMR.
Our Commitment to Combating Antimicrobial Resistance for a Healthier Future
Our mission at NNAST is to guide the nation in the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR). We follow guidelines from the NCDC and WHO to protect public health. Here’s what we do:
- Teach people about AMR and the safe use of antibiotics.
- Train doctors and nurses to give antibiotics correctly.
- Maintain hospital cleanliness to prevent the spread of infections.
- Track resistant germs through lab testing and reports.
- Support research for new medicines and treatments.
- Work with global groups to match AMR goals worldwide.
TERMS OF REFERENCE
Support for National & Sub-National AMS Programs
NNAST plays a vital role in supporting national and sub-national AMS programs across Nigeria. Our aim is to improve how antibiotics are used. We provide guidance to local health authorities. This helps reduce antimicrobial resistance (AMR) risks in different regions. The programs focus on better management and safer drug use.
- Promote responsible antibiotic prescribing in healthcare.
- Support regional initiatives to track resistant infections.
- Ensure better communication between national and local health bodies.
Technical Support for TWG & AMRCC
NNAST provides technical support for the Technical Working Group (TWG) and the AMRCC. We offer expert advice on AMR control strategies. This partnership strengthens efforts to fight AMR in Nigeria.
- Assist in strategy development for AMR response.
- Offer technical expertise in AMR surveillance in Nigeria.
- Help identify effective policy changes for AMR control.
Gap Analysis and Policy Advocacy
We conduct gap analysis to identify weak points in AMR control. NNAST uses this data to influence better policies. Working with the NCDC, we aim to close these gaps. Our advocacy helps shape the future of AMR management in Nigeria.
- Identify gaps in current AMR policies.
- Recommend policy adjustments for more effective control.
- Work closely with health authorities to implement changes.
Our Team
- Dr. Omobosola Akinsete
- Prof Stephen Obaro
- Dr. Olajide Idris
- Dr. Tochi J. Okwor
- Prof. Rebecca Soremekun
- Dr. Nubwa Medugu
- Dr. Temitope Ilori
- Mrs. Hamdalat Bolajoko
- Dr. Adetokunbo Shita-Bey
- Dr Ademola Dada
- Prof Adebowale Adekoya
- Dr Bernard Ebruke
- Dr Laxmicant Chavan
NNAST WORKS WITH GOVERNMENT AND NON-GOVERNMENT AGENCIES
NNAST plays a key role in supporting the Nigerian Center for Disease Control and Prevention. We help implement NAP 2.0 AMR goals under the One Health plan.
Provide Critical Support to NCDC
We assist NCDC in setting standards for Antimicrobial Stewardship in Nigeria. NNAST collects and analyzes AMR data, identifies gaps, and integrates infectious disease education into schools. Our support strengthens AMR management efforts across Nigeria.
Facilitate Collaboration Across Agencies and Sectors
NNAST promotes collaboration among government agencies, healthcare providers, and research institutions. We also connect civil society organizations and international partners. This collaboration ensures a unified, effective response to AMR challenges.
Strengthen Communication and Awareness
We work to improve communication and information sharing among stakeholders. NNAST raises public awareness of AMR and promotes the correct use of antibiotics. This helps reduce AMR by preventing misuse and promoting better practices.
Our Partners in the Fight Against AMR
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FAQs
What is NNAST?
NNAST is a national task force dedicated to combating antimicrobial resistance in Nigeria.
Who does NNAST work with?
NNAST works with NCDC, hospitals, schools, and global health partners.
What is NAP 2.0?
NAP 2.0 is Nigeria’s action plan to reduce drug resistance.
Why is AMR a problem?
AMR makes infections harder to treat and increases health risks.
What is AMR surveillance?
AMR surveillance in Nigeria is the tracking of germs that resist antibiotics. It helps doctors know which treatments still work.
