Nigeria is gearing up to host the prestigious 5th Global High-Level Ministerial Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) on June 29th and 30th, 2026, in the vibrant city of Abuja. This groundbreaking event marks a significant milestone as it will be the first time that this crucial conference takes place on African soil.
The threat of AMR looms large over global health, food security, and sustainable development landscape, with an alarming annual death toll of approximately 1.3 million people worldwide. In response to this pressing issue and following the momentum generated by the 2024 United Nations General Assembly High-Level Meeting on AMR, the upcoming conference in Abuja aims to translate political pledges into tangible strategies for combatting antimicrobial resistance effectively.
One of the key highlights of this event is its focus on fostering collaboration across sectors. The gathering will bring together One Health ministers, policymakers, UN agency leaders, researchers, representatives from the private sector, and civil society stakeholders. They will collectively evaluate progress made so far, identify critical priorities, and devise practical solutions to tackle AMR at a global level.
Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare expressed Nigeria’s dedication to spearheading the fight against AMR through unified action:
“This conference will enhance accountability mechanisms, ensure sustainable funding sources are secured, and drive forward innovative approaches. We take immense pride in welcoming delegates from around the world to showcase Africa’s leadership role in combating antimicrobial resistance.”
Emphasizing the interconnectedness of human health with animal and environmental well-being is a core principle underlying Nigeria’s approach to addressing AMR. Balarabe Abbas Lawal, Nigeria’s Minister of Environment stressed on the importance of preserving ecosystems for maintaining antimicrobial efficacy:
“Collaborative efforts are essential in formulating solutions that safeguard public health and our environment for future generations.”
Minister of Livestock Development Idi Mukhtar Maiha underlined how AMR poses a direct threat to food security and agricultural advancements globally:
“Effective cross-sector partnerships are imperative in confronting this pressing challenge that affects us all.”
The forthcoming conference aims at delivering impactful outcomes that will shape international strategies related to tackling AMR ahead of the scheduled 2026 UNGA High-Level Meeting focusing on this critical issue. It seeks to offer a platform for nations to exchange innovative practices, upscale successful initiatives, and commit towards achieving set targets related to AMR by 2030.
Nigeria extends a heartfelt invitation to governments worldwide along with development partners from various sectors including private industry players, academia members as well as representatives from civil society organizations. Abuja stands not just as a venue but as a symbol embodying resilience and aspiration where global efforts against antimicrobial resistance can be significantly advanced.
As preparations unfold for this momentous event set in motion by Nigeria’s Ministries of Health & Social Welfare alongside Environment & Livestock Development underpinned by a comprehensive One Health approach integrating diverse perspectives – anticipation builds up towards meaningful discussions paving new pathways in combating antimicrobial resistance globally.
