The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has cautioned Nigerians against the abuse of antimicrobial drugs, warning that such practices make infections stronger and more difficult to treat.
In a statement, NOA Director-General Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu described antimicrobial resistance as one of the fastest-growing global health threats, noting that germs such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites are increasingly resisting medicines designed to eliminate them.
He explained that misuse of antibiotics can lead to prolonged illness, higher medical costs, the spread of resistant infections within families, complications during surgery, and even death.
Mallam Issa-Onilu urged Nigerians to avoid taking antibiotics without a doctor’s prescription, complete the full prescribed dosage, and refrain from buying medicines from unqualified vendors.
He further advocated for vaccination, proper hygiene practices, regular handwashing, and drinking clean water as key measures to prevent infections and reduce unnecessary drug use, ultimately safeguarding public health.
Reporting by Abiola Peters