The Federal Government has expressed deep concern over the misuse of antibiotics by fish farmers across the country, warning that the practice poses serious risks to human health, aquaculture, and the environment.
Speaking in Lafia, Nasarawa State, at an antimicrobial resistance (AMR) awareness and sensitisation workshop, the Director of Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology at the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development (FMLD), Mr. Samuel Anzaku, said urgent steps must be taken to tackle the threat.
The workshop, sponsored by the Fleming Fund in partnership with the University of Liverpool, UK, brought together key players in the aquaculture industry, including farmers’ associations and veterinary experts.
Anzaku explained that resistant bacteria from fish farms can spread to humans through contaminated food and water.
He added that improper drug use in aquaculture creates a dangerous reservoir of resistant genes, making infections harder to treat.
He stressed the One Health approach, which recognises the link between human, animal, and environmental health, urging farmers to adopt safer practices.
“Curtailing misuse of antibiotics will lead to safer fish production and protect human health,” he said.
Also speaking, programme coordinator and Fleming Fund Fellow, Maureen Kajo-Kokoiwen, urged farmers to work closely with veterinarians instead of relying on unverified treatment methods.
She warned that ignoring withdrawal periods after drug use puts consumers and the environment at serious risk.
“Antimicrobial misuse is becoming a threat to food security and public health.
This awareness campaign is part of a global effort to promote responsible use of antibiotics,” she noted.
On his part, Manasseh Usman, president of the Nasarawa Fish Farmers and Processors Association, applauded the government and partners for the initiative.
He pledged to spread the message among fish farmers and the wider community, saying the campaign would improve farming practices and safeguard consumers.
The government reiterated its commitment to strengthening awareness campaigns, urging farmers nationwide to embrace responsible antibiotic use in line with international food safety standards.