The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development (FMLD) has cautioned fish farmers in Nasarawa State against the misuse and overuse of antibiotics, warning that it poses serious risks to aquaculture, human health and the environment.
Dr Samuel Anzaku, Director, Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology in the ministry, gave the warning at an Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) awareness and sensitisation workshop for fish farmers on Wednesday in Lafia.
The sensitisation programmes was sponsored by the Fleming Fund through the University of Liverpool, UK, in collaboration with FMLD.
Anzaku, represented by Dr Lazaru Laubayums, FMLD State Coordinator, said antimicrobial resistance occurs when microorganisms change and no longer respond to medicines, making infections harder to treat.
He noted that indiscriminate use of antibiotics in aquaculture leads to economic losses, poor productivity and long-term health hazards.
“If we curtail misuse of antibiotics, we will ensure safer production in the fishery industry and protect human health.
“Selling fish before the required drug withdrawal period exposes consumers to harmful residues, which contribute to AMR,” he said.
Mrs Maureen Kajo-Kokoiwen, Coordinator of the programme and a Fleming Fund Fellow, said the awareness campaign was part of a global effort to promote responsible antimicrobial use.
She explained that AMR, driven largely by misuse and self-medication, had become a growing threat to food security and public health.
“Farmers must work with veterinarians for proper disease treatment and avoid sharing unverified treatment methods. Failure to observe drug withdrawal periods puts both consumers and the environment at risk,” she said.
Also speaking, Mr Manasseh Usman, President, Nasarawa Fish Farmers and Processors Association, commended the initiative, saying the training would help farmers adopt safer practices.
“This programme is creating awareness on how to properly use antibiotics in aquaculture. It will go a long way in safeguarding consumers and improving our farming practices,” he said.
He assured that the association, with over 130 registered members, would spread the message among fish farmers across the state.
The global theme for this year’s AMR awareness campaign is: “Act Now, Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future.”
