By Rebecca Caleb Maina, Gombe, Nigeria
Stakeholders from across key sectors in Gombe State have pledged renewed commitment to intensifying the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR), agreeing to establish a joint platform—the Gombe AMR Action Network (GAAN)—to drive coordinated action and sustained engagement.
The commitment was captured in the Gombe AMR Action Declaration 2025, issued at the AMR Stakeholders Engagement Roundtable held at the Gombe State Specialist Hospital Conference Hall. The meeting was convened by EcoMed Nexus Foundation in collaboration with the South Centre, Geneva.
In the communiqué issued by the founder of the EcoMed Nexus Foundation, Zeenatudeen Muhammad, participants reaffirmed that AMR poses an escalating threat to human, animal, and environmental health. They emphasized that only unified and unwavering collaboration can effectively curb the spread of drug-resistant infections.
The roundtable—which brought together government agencies, veterinary and agricultural experts, academics, youth groups, the media, and civil society—served as a platform for stakeholders to demonstrate shared resolve and outline practical steps for a strengthened AMR response.
After series of technical presentations and discussions, participants unanimously agreed to form GAAN, a voluntary multisectoral network expected to serve as the backbone of Gombe State’s AMR control efforts.
Championing responsible antibiotic use and reducing misuse in hospitals, farms, and communities.
Intensifying AMR surveillance and enhancing laboratory systems for better detection and reporting.
Supporting WASH and environmental initiatives to limit the spread of resistant organisms.
Expanding community sensitisation through continuous engagement with the media and civil society.
Strengthening partnerships among government, academia, and non-state actors in alignment with the National Action Plan on AMR.
Using GAAN as a permanent channel for dialogue, joint action, and periodic review of progress.
Stakeholders pledge to work together under the One Health framework, recognizing that the success of AMR control relies on collective responsibility.
They expressed readiness to support evidence-based policies and long-term interventions that will safeguard the health and wellbeing of communities across Gombe State.