Livestock farmers have been urged by a top expert to reduce the use of antibiotics in animal production to combat the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Dr. John Ajayi, the Director of Farm Services at the Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology (FCAH&PT) in Ibadan, emphasized the risks associated with the excessive use of antibiotics in livestock farming.
Speaking at the Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Summit organized by The Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology (FCAH&PT) in partnership with its Department of Animal Health Technology, Dr. Ajayi advised livestock farmers to raise their animals in a manner that requires minimal use of antibiotics. He highlighted the fact that the more antibiotics are used, the greater the risk to society from antimicrobial resistance.
Dr. Ajayi recommended alternative methods to antibiotics, such as probiotics, prebiotics, acidifiers, and yeast, to enhance livestock growth without compromising public health. He stressed that antibiotics should only be used when animals are clearly diagnosed with an illness that requires treatment.
The Provost of FCAH&PT, Dr. Adekoya Owosibo, reiterated the institution’s commitment to raising awareness about AMR. He stated that educating the public, especially livestock farmers, about the dangers of antibiotic residues in animal products and their impact on human health is a crucial responsibility.
The summit, themed “Antimicrobial Resistance: Causes, Effects, and Prevention in the Environment, Animals, and Humans,” included various activities such as a roadshow, to educate communities on AMR and antimicrobial stewardship. Additionally, over 100 people received free medical screenings sponsored by Nikzar Medical Centre, Bode Igbo, Ibadan.
Prominent speakers at the summit included Dr. Olusegun Ajisefini, Director of Clinical Documentation Integrity at Cedars-Sinai Hospital Systems in Beverly Hills, USA, as well as experts from FCAH&PT.
