Ayoade Alakija Appointed Global Ambassador for Antimicrobial Resistance

The federal government has announced the appointment of Dr. Ayoade Alakija, a globally renowned health advocate, as its ministerial global ambassador for antimicrobial resistance (AMR). 

Dr Ayoade would be critical in championing the One Health approach. As Ministerial Global Envoy, she will sit on the Ministerial Advisory Committee for the 2026 conference and support high-level advocacy, resource mobilisation, and policy framing efforts.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare. Announcing her appointment, Dr. Muhammad Pate noted her leadership and dual role as the World Health Organisation (WHO) Special Envoy for the Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator. He emphasised that 

“She has demonstrated global leadership in fighting for access to diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines for those who need them most,” Minister Pate stated. “She brings to the role a wealth of experience, including her positions as Chair of the African Union Vaccine Delivery Alliance.”

Responding to her appointment, Dr. Alakija noted the urgency of the AMR crisis, particularly its disproportionate impact on Africa, where she noted it now poses a greater danger than HIV, TB, or malaria.

She expressed her honour in supporting Nigeria’s hosting of the landmark conference and her commitment to elevating African leadership in shaping the global response. 

“With collective action rooted in equity and a One Health approach, we can turn the tide on AMR and the injustices it entrenches,” Dr. Ayoade affirmed.

With Dr. Ayoade Alakija at the helm of this crucial global engagement, Nigeria is poised to lead a transformative discussion, ensuring that the fight against AMR is equitable, inclusive, and ultimately, successful for all.