Poor Regulations, Ignorance Fuel Anti-Microbial Resistance in Nigeria – Prof. Junaid of FULAFIA

Surajudeen A. Junaid, a professor of medical microbiology with expertise in virology at the College of Medicine, Federal University of Lafia (FULafia), has highlighted poor regulations and widespread ignorance as key factors contributing to the growing issue of anti-microbial resistance in Nigeria. He called on authorities to address these challenges urgently.

Speaking during his 20th inaugural lecture titled “Tales of Man’s Travails and Triumphs as the Battle with Viruses Rages on,” Prof. Junaid explained that three interconnected issues are fueling the resurgence of microbial diseases. He noted that rapid, unplanned urbanization, driven by migration from rural to urban areas, is creating crowded living conditions with limited access to healthcare and poor sanitation. These conditions, he said, provide fertile ground for the spread of pathogens like Ebola, Zika, and influenza.

“In such environments, pathogens can easily spread, and with more infections mingling, there are greater opportunities for these microbes to share their virulence genes,” Junaid warned.

Prof. Junaid, who serves as the Deputy Provost of the College of Medicine and the pioneer Dean of the Faculty of Allied Health Science, stressed the importance of early detection in the ongoing fight against dangerous diseases, noting that the development of new drugs and vaccines is often too slow to keep up with emerging threats.

He further emphasized the need for maintaining strong immune systems through healthy lifestyles, stating, “We must indulge in lifestyles that do not weaken our immune systems.”

To combat the rise of viral infections and anti-microbial resistance, Prof. Junaid recommended improved training and retraining of healthcare workers, increased access to vaccines, and the consistent practice of routine medical checks and adherence to treatment protocols.

The Vice-Chancellor of FULafia, Professor Shehu Abdul Rahman, congratulated Junaid for being the first professor from the College of Medicine to deliver an inaugural lecture. He praised Junaid as "a very hardworking academic" who has made significant contributions to the development of medical microbiology at the institution.

The lecture, held at the MIS Multi-Purpose Hall of the university’s Permanent Site Campus, was attended by dignitaries and well-wishers. Notable attendees included Dr. G. C. Okara, Registrar of the West African Postgraduate College of Medical Laboratory Science; Manason Rubainu, President of the Association of Professional Bodies of Nigeria; and Garba M. Rosha, Permanent Secretary of the Nassarawa State Ministry of Environment. Representatives from various medical and educational bodies also graced the occasion, along with staff and students of FULafia.

The event concluded with a presentation of a certificate, plaque, and gift to Prof. Junaid by Vice-Chancellor Abdul Rahman.