Medical experts have raised alarms about the dangers of self-medication and the misuse of antibiotics in Nigeria. This warning was issued during a one-day sensitization project on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) held in Enugu, organized by Winifred Maduko, a PhD student from the University of St. Andrews, UK.
The event was part of a grassroots initiative aimed at raising awareness of antimicrobial use and promoting responsible practices. AMR is recognized as a critical global health threat, significantly reducing the effectiveness of antibiotics in treating infections and diseases, with the World Health Organization (WHO) listing it among the top ten global health threats.
Maduko emphasized the necessity of educating the public on the correct use of antibiotics. “We aim to inform people in Enugu and beyond about antimicrobial resistance and how antibiotic misuse can contribute to it,” she stated. The project, implemented in collaboration with Afia TV, South Sahara, and other social development organizations, attracted over 60 participants who will disseminate the information in their communities.
She highlighted the concerning trend of Nigerians purchasing antibiotics over the counter, particularly in rural areas, often without understanding the health implications. “By raising awareness about antibiotic misuse, we can live healthier lives and ensure the sustainability of these drugs for future generations,” she added.
Dr. Stanley Ilechukwu, Executive Director of South Sahara and Social Development Organizations, noted that individuals could mitigate the risk of AMR through proper education. He warned that self-medication and relying on unqualified vendors can worsen health conditions. “Educating the public can reduce the practice of self-medication and its associated risks,” he asserted.
Dr. Chioma Nwoba also stressed that improper use of antibiotics leads to resistance, rendering drugs ineffective over time. “When antibiotics are taken indiscriminately, organisms develop resistance, making the same drugs ineffective against illnesses,” she explained.
Kenneth Egwu, a pharmacist at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, pointed out that factors contributing to antimicrobial resistance include the abuse of antibiotics, their use in livestock farming, and exposure to infections.
Participant Ikechukwu Okolie expressed gratitude for the program, noting its potential to increase awareness about antimicrobial resistance among the public.