The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development (FMLD) has raised concerns over the rising misuse and overuse of antibiotics in aquaculture, warning that the practice threatens fish farming productivity, public health, and environmental safety.

The caution was issued by Samuel Anzaku, Director of Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology at the ministry, during an Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) sensitization workshop for fish farmers held in Lafia, Nasarawa State.

The programme was sponsored by the Fleming Fund, through the University of Liverpool (UK), in collaboration with the FMLD.

Risks of Antibiotic Misuse in Aquaculture

Mr. Anzaku explained that antimicrobial resistance occurs when microorganisms adapt and no longer respond to treatment, making infections harder to manage. He stressed that indiscriminate use of antibiotics in fish farming results in:

• Economic losses and reduced fish productivity
• Harmful drug residues in fish sold before the withdrawal period
• Long-term threats to human health and the aquatic environment

“Curtailing antibiotic misuse is critical to ensuring safer fish production, food security, and consumer health,” Anzaku said.

A Global Threat

Programme coordinator and Fleming Fund Fellow, Maureen Kajo-Kokoiwen, emphasised that AMR is a growing global challenge largely driven by misuse and self-medication. She advised farmers to always consult veterinarians for treatment and avoid circulating unverified drug-use methods.

“Failure to respect drug withdrawal periods not only endangers consumers but also pollutes the environment,” she warned.

Farmers’ Response

The President of the Nasarawa Fish Farmers and Processors Association, Manasseh Usman, commended the initiative, describing it as a vital step toward sustainable aquaculture practices.

He assured that with over 130 registered members, the association would actively promote responsible use of antibiotics among fish farmers across the state.

“This training has created awareness on proper antibiotic use in aquaculture, which will go a long way in protecting consumers and improving farming practices,” he said.

Why It Matters

Experts stress that antibiotic misuse in aquaculture contributes to the One Health crisis, where resistant bacteria spread between animals, humans, and the environment. Without urgent intervention, AMR could undermine efforts to build a resilient food system in Nigeria.