Fleming Fund Strengthens Community Advocacy on Antimicrobial Resistance in Nigeria  

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a critical and growing public health crisis in Nigeria, driven by the misuse and overuse of antibiotics. If left unchecked, drug-resistant infections could reverse decades of medical progress. To address this challenge, the Fleming Fund Country Grant Phase II in Nigeria – led by MSH – hosted a five-day workshop in Lagos in February 2025. The event brought together community-based organizations (CBOs) and journalists to strengthen advocacy, raise public awareness, and foster collaboration aimed at driving sustainable change across the country.  

Engaging Local Voices to tackle AMR

The workshop recognized the vital roles of civil society and media in shaping public discourse and aimed to bridge gaps between grassroots health advocates and the media professionals responsible for amplifying these critical health messages. Strengthening connections between CBOs and journalists enhances the collective effort to combat AMR at the community level.

Dr. Akujuobi C. Igwe, a public health consultant from Lead City University and workshop facilitator, emphasized the urgency of addressing AMR. “AMR poses a significant threat to public health globally, and Nigeria is no exception. Misuse of antibiotics—through self-medication, incomplete courses of treatment, or unregulated sales—drives the rise of resistant infections,” he explained. “CBOs and journalists play a pivotal role in educating the public and advocating for responsible antibiotic use.”

One of the participating organizations, Girl Child Freedom at the Grassroots (GCFG), is partnering with the Fleming Fund to confront the escalating crisis posed by AMR. Nwaiwu Chinonso, Director of GCFG, shared how the workshop reshaped his understanding of the links between sanitation, hygiene, and antibiotic resistance. “We never fully realized just how closely linked AMR is to the everyday hygiene practices,” he said. “Now, we are integrating AMR awareness into our health initiatives, ensuring families and health workers understand the importance of proper sanitation and responsible antibiotic use.” 

Sustained Action for Lasting Impact

A key outcome of the workshop was the development of practical strategies for disseminating accurate AMR information. Participants collaborated on ideas such as local radio programs, social media campaigns, and community outreach events to maximize audience reach. By leveraging media platforms and grassroots engagement, they aim to build a more informed public that supports policies to curb antibiotic misuse.

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Musa Bologi, a journalist from Nigeria’s The Nation newspaper, reflected on the value of the training: “As a journalist, I need accurate information to report effectively on public health issues. Before the workshop, I didn’t fully grasp AMR’s scope.  Now, I feel equipped to report on it accurately, hold policymakers accountable, and encourage safer health practices among the public.”

MSH’s Babatunde Akinola, Project Director for the Fleming Fund Country Grant Phase II, underscored the importance of community engagement and partnerships. “Building local capacity and fostering collaboration between organizations and media professionals are crucial steps toward addressing AMR,” Akinola said. “By empowering these groups, we lay the foundation for sustainable change in how antibiotics are used and understood across Nigeria.”

As Nigeria continues to confront the challenges posed by AMR, fostering community engagement and maintaining partnerships between CBOs, journalists, and policymakers will remain essential. By promoting responsible antibiotic use and public awareness, MSH and its partners are taking proactive steps to safeguard health and wellbeing for future generations.

Related:  Experts Highlight Role of Risk Communication in Combatting AMR