Nigeria postpones global antimicrobial resistance conference

The Federal Government has postponed the fifth Global High-Level Ministerial Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), originally scheduled to take place in Abuja from June 28 to June 30.

The announcement was made in a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr Muhammad Pate.

According to the minister, the decision followed extensive consultations with key stakeholders and partners involved in the conference’s preparation. A new date will be communicated in due course after further engagements with relevant parties.

“The Federal Government deeply regrets any inconvenience this postponement may cause and appreciates the understanding, support, and continued cooperation of all stakeholders,” Mr Pate said.

He expressed gratitude to the Troika, the Global Leaders Group on Antimicrobial Resistance, the Quadripartite Joint Secretariat on AMR, and member states for their support. He also thanked development partners, international organisations, civil society groups, academia, youth networks, and other stakeholders for their commitment to the conference’s success.

Mr Pate reaffirmed that Nigeria remains honoured to host the global gathering and is committed to advancing international collaboration against antimicrobial resistance through the One Health approach.

Preparatory activities will continue under the supervision of the Local Organising Committee and relevant government agencies, with ongoing engagement with partners and stakeholders.

“Antimicrobial resistance remains one of the most significant global health challenges of our time, requiring sustained commitment and coordinated action across countries and sectors,” Mr Pate added.

Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites no longer respond to medicines, making infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness, and death.

(NAN)