The Laboratory and Research Director at Rotan Medical Diagnostics Ltd., Dr Akujuobi Igwe on Monday emphasised the need for greater private sector engagement in tackling Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).
Speaking on the topic, “The Role of Private Sector Engagement in AMR: Challenges and Opportunities”, Igwe said in Abuja that AMR posed a threat to global public health.
“As Nigeria and other Low-and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) continue to battle the growing AMR crisis, increased private sector participation can be a game-changer in preventing the spread of drug-resistant infections and safeguarding global health,” he said.
Highlighting key areas where private sector involvement could drive progress, as well as the barriers that must be addressed, Igwe pointed out that the private sector played a crucial role in diagnostics, research and drug development.
He pointed out several opportunities where the private sector could make a significant impact in combating AMR.
“Private diagnostic laboratories like Rotan Medical Diagnostics Ltd. have a unique opportunity to drive innovation in rapid AMR diagnostics.
“Early and accurate detection of drug-resistant infections can significantly improve treatment outcomes and reduce the misuse of antibiotics,” he said.
The director added that establishing strong Public-Private Partnerships could provide the private sector with the necessary resources and policy support to expand AMR research, surveillance, and antibiotic production.
“Governments should create enabling environments where private firms can actively participate in AMR initiatives.
“Drug manufacturers and distributors can support antibiotic stewardship programmes by ensuring responsible marketing and distribution of antimicrobial products.
“Encouraging the production of high-quality, affordable generic antibiotics can also reduce the circulation of substandard and counterfeit drugs, which contribute to AMR,” he said.
Igwe said that private sector actors could play a key role in educating healthcare professionals and the public on the dangers of AMR.
“By funding awareness campaigns, organising training for healthcare workers, and promoting responsible antibiotic use, the private sector can help curb the spread of resistant infections,” he said.
According to the director, governments and international donors should collaborate with the private sector to establish research funding programmes targeting AMR solutions.
He said that this would encourage more private-sector players to engage in the development of novel antibiotics and alternative therapies.
Igwe underscored that tackling AMR required a multi-sectoral approach, with the private sector playing a crucial role in providing innovative solutions, investing in research and supporting stewardship programmes.
He called for stronger policies that incentivised private sector engagement, streamlined regulatory processes, and fostered partnerships between governments and private stakeholders.
Igwe, however, added that several challenges hindered the private sector’s full participation in AMR mitigation.
“Many private pharmaceutical and diagnostic companies shy away from investing in AMR solutions due to high costs and uncertain returns on investment.
“Unlike chronic diseases, antibiotics and AMR-related products often have limited profitability, discouraging private investment,” he said.
He noted that strict and often inconsistent regulatory policies in Nigeria and LMICs made it difficult for private labs and pharmaceutical companies to introduce new AMR solutions.
“Lengthy approval processes for new diagnostics and antibiotics delay access to life-saving interventions,” he said.
Igwe stressed that pharmaceutical companies required financial incentives such as tax breaks, research grants and subsidies to encourage investment in new antibiotic development.
“However, such incentives remain scarce, limiting innovation in AMR-focused research,” he said.
He stressed that effective AMR response required synergy between governments, research institutions and the private sector.
“However, inadequate collaboration and weak policy frameworks hinder coordinated efforts in surveillance, drug stewardship and public awareness campaigns,” the director said.
NAN
