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WHO Warns Of Widespread Resistance To Common Antibiotics Worldwide

One in six laboratory-confirmed bacterial infections causing common infections in people worldwide in 2023 were resistant to antibiotic treatments, according to a new World Health Organization (WHO) report launched .

 Between 2018 and 2023, antibiotic resistance rose in over 40% of the pathogen-antibiotic combinations monitored, with an average annual increase of 5–15%.

Data reported to the WHO Global Antimicrobial Resistance and Use Surveillance System (GLASS) from over 100 countries cautions that increasing resistance to essential antibiotics poses a growing threat to global health.

The new Global antibiotic resistance surveillance report 2025 presents, for the first time, resistance prevalence estimates across 22 antibiotics used to treat infections of the urinary and gastrointestinal tracts, the bloodstream and those used to treat gonorrhoea. The report covers 8 common bacterial pathogens – Acinetobacter spp., Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, non-typhoidal Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae – each linked to one or more of these infections.

The risk of antibiotic resistance varies across the world
WHO estimates that antibiotic resistance is highest in the WHO South-East Asian and Eastern Mediterranean Regions, where 1 in 3 reported infections were resistant. In the African Region, 1 in 5 infections was resistant. Resistance is also more common and worsening in places where health systems lack capacity to diagnose or treat bacterial pathogens.

“Antimicrobial resistance is outpacing advances in modern medicine, threatening the health of families worldwide,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “As countries strengthen their AMR surveillance systems, we must use antibiotics responsibly, and make sure everyone has access to the right medicines, quality-assured diagnostics, and vaccines. Our future also depends on strengthening systems to prevent, diagnose and treat infections and on innovating with next-generation antibiotics and rapid point-of-care molecular tests.”

Gram-negative bacterial pathogens are posing the greatest threat
The new report notes that drug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria are becoming more dangerous worldwide, with the greatest burden falling on countries least equipped to respond. Among these, E. coli and K. pneumoniae are the leading drug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria found in bloodstream infections. These are among the most severe bacterial infections that often result in sepsis, organ failure, and death. Yet more than 40% of E. coli and over 55% of K. pneumoniae globally are now resistant to third-generation cephalosporins, the first-choice treatment for these infections. In the African Region, resistance even exceeds 70%.

Other essential life-saving antibiotics, including carbapenems and fluoroquinolones, are losing effectiveness against E. coli, K. pneumoniae, Salmonella, and Acinetobacter. Carbapenem resistance, once rare, is becoming more frequent, narrowing treatment options and forcing reliance on last-resort antibiotics. And such antibiotics are costly, difficult to access, and often unavailable in low- and middle-income countries.

Welcome progress in AMR surveillance – but more action needed
Country participation in GLASS has increased over four-fold, from 25 countries in 2016 to 104 countries in 2023. However, 48% of countries did not report data to GLASS in 2023 and about half of the reporting countries still lacked the systems to generate reliable data. In fact, countries facing the largest challenges lacked the surveillance capacity to assess their antimicrobial resistance (AMR) situation.

The political declaration on AMR adopted at the United Nations General Assembly in 2024 set targets to address AMR through strengthening health systems and working with a ‘One Health’ approach coordinating across human health, animal health, and environmental sectors. To combat the growing challenge of AMR, countries must commit to strengthening laboratory systems and generating reliable surveillance data, especially from underserved areas, to inform treatments and policies.

WHO calls on all countries to report high-quality data on AMR and antimicrobial use to GLASS by 2030. Achieving this target will require concerted action to strengthen the quality, geographic coverage, and sharing of AMR surveillance data to track progress. Countries should scale up coordinated interventions designed to address antimicrobial resistance across all levels of healthcare and ensure that treatment guidelines and essential medicines lists align with local resistance patterns.

The report is accompanied by expanded digital content available in the WHO’s GLASS dashboard, which provides global and regional summaries, country profiles based on unadjusted surveillance coverage and AMR data, and detailed information on antimicrobial use.

Online Poster by — October 14, 2025 in News
SOFIG Group Makes Case For Ukachukwu

* Says Anambra Needs Transformative Change In Leadership 
By Nnedinma Michael 
The President, Sustenance of Faith in Governance (SOFIG) Family,
Barr Kingsley Ezekwelu has described the All Progressives Congress (APC) Candidate for the November 8 Gubernatorial Election in Anambra State,
Prince Nicholas Chukwujekwu Ukachukwu as a visionary leader, equipped with integrity and proven capacity.
Speaking at Ifite-Ogwari, Ayamelum Local Government Area, when he led the SOFIG Family executives to the flag off campaign of its 21 local government area tour and mobilisation of polling unit canvassers across Anambra’s 326 electoral wards ahead the election,
Ezekwelu noted that the most meaningful step for Anambra State grassroots support and mobilisation at this defining moment is a transformative change in leadership, one capable of steering the state toward greater progress and glory.
 While urging members of the Ikukuoma SOFIG Family to make it a date with history on November 8,2025, by voting massively for the joint ticket of Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu and Senator Uche Ekwunife, he described them as a perfect team endowed with the experience, credibility, and vision to reposition Anambra for greatness.
He emphasised that at a time when the state stands at a political crossroads, Anambra needs a leadership that understands the pains of the people and has the willpower to deliver good governance.
“Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu has consistently demonstrated capacity, compassion, and commitment to the cause of Ndi Anambra. He represents integrity, development, and inclusiveness, qualities we urgently need to move our dear state forward,” he stated.
The Ayamelum Coordinator of the SOFIG Family, Pastor Emeka Okonkwo, said that Anambra deserved a people-oriented and transformational government that will restore hope and ensure development reaches every community.
 He noted that the APC ticket of Prince Ukachukwu and Senator Ekwunife offers the most credible path to achieve that vision.
“The desired change we have long yearned for can only come through a government led by Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu. He is not only a leader with a proven record of philanthropy and vision but also a man who listens and acts decisively.
“His partnership with Senator Ekwunife will ensure balanced representation, gender inclusion, and development across the three senatorial zones,” he said.
He however, expressed disappointment over the current administration under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), which, he said, had failed to fulfil its promises to the people of Ayamelum.
“It is heartbreaking that despite our loyalty and contributions, we have not witnessed the development we were promised. That is why we are aligning with a man of timbre and calibre, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, fondly known as Ikukuoma Ndi Igbo, whose leadership will restore dignity and direction to our politics,” he concluded.
Online Poster by — October 14, 2025 in News
Fidelity Bags Awards For Best Export, Trade Support And Innovation Innovation

 

Amaka Obiefuna

 

 

Fidelity Bank’s market leadership has been affirmed once again as the tier-one lender bagged double honours at the BusinessDay Bank and Other Financial Institutions’(BAFI) Awards 2025.

 

At the awards ceremony, which was held at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos on Saturday, 11 October 2025, Fidelity Bank was presented with the awards for the “Best Bank for Export & Trade Finance” and “Most Innovative Bank of the Year”.

 

Dedicating the Export and Trade Finance Award to its customers, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe,OON, who was represented by the Executive Director/Chief Operations and Information Officer, Stanley Amuchie, said, “This recognition underscores our unwavering commitment to promoting non-oil exports and supporting Nigerian businesses to compete globally through initiatives such as the Fidelity International Trade & Creative Connect (FNITCC) and the Export Management Programme (EMP).

 

“I dedicate this award to all our exporters who continue to showcase the best of Nigeria to the world, our loyal customers, and our partners for their steadfast support.”

 

The BAFI Awards is the benchmark of distinction for institutions in the Nigerian financial services sector. Now in its 12th year, the awards recognise and celebrate organisations that are excelling in the delivery of financial services in Nigeria. The award acknowledges organisations demonstrating leadership, vision and impact in driving Nigeria’s growth trajectory.

 

Fidelity Bank’s recent recognition is attributed to significant accomplishments over the past twelve months. Notable milestones include the inauguration of the first privately constructed onshore oil export terminal in Nigeria in fifty years at the Otakikpo Marginal Field, which was funded by Fidelity Bank and commissioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu last week. Additionally, the Bank launched the Fidelity SME Hub, a multipurpose facility designed to support small businesses through innovation, collaboration, and capacity-building initiatives.

 

Furthermore, Fidelity Bank organized the third edition of the Fidelity Nigeria International Trade & Creative Connect (FNITCC) in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, in September 2025. This event provided local businesses with opportunities to engage in deal rooms with U.S. buyers, including prominent retailers such as Walmart and Target, fostering potential partnerships.

 

“The innovation award is a special one for us as it validates our continued drive to enhance operational efficiency, elevate customer experience, and strengthen business performance. We sincerely appreciate BusinessDay Media for this recognition and reaffirm our commitment to introducing more impactful innovations that empower our customers and advance the Nigerian financial services industry”, commented Amuchie.

Online Poster by — October 13, 2025 in News
Customer Service Week: SEC DG Emphasizes Technology As Key To Building Investor Trust

CSW: SEC DG emphasizes technology as key to building investor trust | Western Post
Amaka Obiefuna

The Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to leveraging technology to strengthen investor confidence and transform Nigeria’s capital market into a globally competitive environment.

 Speaking at the 2025 Customer Service Week celebration in Abuja with the theme “Building the Market of the Future, One Interaction at a Time,” Dr. Agama said the SEC is embracing digital innovation as a core part of its service strategy to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accessibility across all market operations.
He noted that recent advancements, such as the digitization of SEC processes, deployment of new online service portals, and enhanced engagement with market stakeholders through digital platforms, were designed to simplify regulatory interactions and make the market more user-friendly.
 According to him, “The digitization of our processes, the launch of new portals, and our enhanced engagement on social media are all steps in the right direction. They are designed to make our market more accessible, transparent, and user-friendly”.
 While acknowledging the transformative power of technology, the SEC boss stressed that human engagement remains central to building trust.
He explained that “technology is only an enabler,” adding: “The heart of excellent service is the human connection—the ability to listen, understand, and provide solutions that make every stakeholder feel valued.”
 Dr. Agama pledged that the Commission would continue to invest in digital infrastructure, continuous staff training, and tools that empower frontline officers to deliver superior service to investors.
 He described customer-facing staff as the “true heroes” of the capital market, whose work directly shapes investor perception and confidence in the system.
 He stressed that the SEC’s vision is to build a deep, vibrant, and technology-driven capital market powered by efficient service delivery and sustained trust.
“Let every day be Customer Service Day at the Nigerian SEC and across our capital market. Let us continue to build this market of the future, not with grand pronouncements alone, but with one successful interaction, one resolved complaint, and one satisfied stakeholder at a time”, he stated.
Online Poster by — October 13, 2025 in Capital Market
SON seeks improved stakeholders’ collaboration to strengthen trade through standards

 
 
The Standards Organisation of Nigeria has called for collaboration with stakeholders to strengthen trade through standards.
The Director General, SON, Ifeanyi Okeke at the 2025 edition of the World Standards Day themed “Shared vision for a better world,  spotlight on the Sustainable Development Goal 17” celebration in Lagos, said the event is not only to commemorate the global significance of standards, but also to demonstrate collective commitment through the work of standards, a symbolic expression of unity and shared vision for national and global development.
According to him, the theme is both timely and also compelling, noting that it reinforces the fact that sustainable development cannot be achieved by any single institution.
“Collaboration, cooperation, partnership are true drivers of progress and standards are the common language that makes such partnership possible.
“For Nigeria, this theme speaks to the realities of our development journey. Our goals, from food security to industrialization, from energy transition to trade expansion, require cooperation between the government, the private sector, academia and civil society.
“By spotlighting this Sustainable Development Goal 17, we affirm that partnerships are not simply supportive, but are the very backbone for achieving other Sustainable Development Goals.
Okeke said that national quality infrastructure is the underpinning, that determines Nigeria’s level of development, in terms of its ability to ensure that imported and exported products meet the required standards,  either national, regional and global standards.
“We cannot do conformity assessments alone.
We need the collaboration, we need the partnership, we need the cooperation.
“In this regard, for imported products, we need to have our internationally accredited experts, because SON cannot be found everywhere in the world.
“We need to have organizations that have been accredited and recognized globally to be able to help us test and certify our products.
“So we need that support, we need that collaboration internationally for imported products,” he added.
To boost export of locally produced goods, the Director General said, “We have the SONEXCAP which is our certification programme for exports. Nigeria cannot just continue dwelling on imports.
“What really sustains any nation is the ability to export. So SON is also playing in that field. Through the SONEXCAP, products that will leave this country to other countries with the SONEXCAP certification, those products can be accepted in most of the countries especially in Africa because of this African free trade area agreement.
“Because what it simply means is that with our SONEXCAP certification, we have a mutual recognised agreement with other African countries.
“This means that any products that leave Nigeria to other African countries will be wholeheartedly accepted,” he averred.
Online Poster by — October 13, 2025 in News
Archbishop Nzekwesi Celebrates Birthday In Grand Style 

By Nnedinma Michael
 
 
The Chief  Executive Officer ( CEO) of Pineeaf Estate and founder of Jesus Is Alive Church, Archbishop Onyekachukwu Joseph Nzekwesi, on Friday, October 10, 2025, celebrated his birthday in Eziowelle, Anambra State, Nigeria.
The celebration attracted numerous dignitaries, including politicians and business leaders, who gathered to wish him a happy birthday.
Some notable attendees include Chief George Muoghalu of Labour Party,
Chief Obinna Iyiegbu (Obi Cubana), Chief Chimezie Nwankwo (Abig Nwankwo), Chief Ikenna Iyiegbu (Ike Cubana), Hon Ikenna Offordeme of Anambra State House of Assembly, Chief Humphrey Anuna, President-General of ASMATA and others.
During the celebration, Archbishop Nzekwesi expressed gratitude to God for his blessings and prayed for his church members, business partners, sons and daughters in the real estate business, and for peaceful conduct of the November 8 Gubernatorial Election in Anambra State.
The Permanent Secretary,  Anambra State Ministry of Transport  and Commerce, Chief Engr. Michael  Obiekwe( Mmilioma Ogbunike),  praised Archbishop Nzekwesi for his  philanthropic efforts, noting that he has been a hope  for many,  a child of God that has created ripple effects of kindness  and generosity that has transformed lives and the community.
He prayed and thanked God for the celebrant’s life and that of his family, wishing him a peaceful birthday celebration.
A  consultant with Pine Leaf Estate, Mr Austine Eke,  described Archbishop Nzekwesi as a good man, a mentor in the real estate business, praising his exceptional work in real estate, and encouraged others to emulate his example to contribute to the development of the South East Region.
He added that his selflessness serves as a powerful reminder that everyone has the capacity to make positive impacts.
“Bishop has impacted many lives through his mentorship and empowerment to youths, women and others,” he concluded.
Online Poster by — October 13, 2025 in News
Stakeholders Seek End To  Infrastructure Deficits, Barriers to  Achieving $1trillion Economy for Nigeria.

The quest for economic intelligence and
strategies that will mitigate  infrastructure deficits and  barriers on pathways to achieving  $1trillion economy in Nigeria will dominate  discussions at the Finance and Business Online Publishers (FiBOP) Annual National Conference 2025.
Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of  the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun and his team will be aggregating emerging solutions to put the economy at an even keel at the upcoming event.
The Annual National Conference provides a platform for technocrats, economists, and  thought  leaders from across all sectors to  brainstorm on fundamental ways to fast track  the achievement of $1 trillion economy target.
The Ministry has confirmed full participation at the conference which is scheduled to hold on October 18th and 19th 2025 at Orchid Hotels Lekki, Lagos.
Specifically, the conference is also billed to identify innovative strategies for  diversifying from dependence on oil, by adapting technology, fostering innovation, investing in renewable energy, insurance, agriculture, and services.
Absolutely designed to chart  a clear plan for securing successful mutual accountability and investment strategies of crucial importance for Nigeria’s economic growth development.
Furthermore it is intended to show how  technology innovations, tax reforms, renewable energy, and agriculture will severally and jointly contribute to achieve the target of $1 trillion economy.
National development minded corporate Organizations have thrown their weights behind the conference.
Cornerstone Insurance PLC, NGX Group, Nigerian Agriculture Insurance Corporation (NAIC) and NASENI are amongst the latest  to join forces with emPLE Insurance, Universal Insurance, Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Nigerian Agriculture Insurance Corporation, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Nestle Nigeria PLC  and banks like Zenith, Polaris and Fidelity to ensure a grand and successful confab.
Commenting on preparations for the event, Chairman, Conference Planning Committee, Mr. Godson Ikoro, is very optimistic that FiBOP  will pull off a very  utilitarian conference that will generate fresh strategies to drive home Nigeria’s $1 trillion economy by 2030.
In the same vein, FiBOP President, Mr Charles Onwuatogwu in appreciating the support of the various partners backoned on more and organizations to join forces with other stakeholders to fast track the $1 trillion economy agenda and ensure better standard of living for Nigerians.
He reiterated that  partners and sponsors will enjoy a wide range of benefits from well articulated media exposure and publicity plan.
FiBOP is a registered body by the Corporate Affairs Commission made up of seasoned online publishers and editors, with wealth of experience in the print and electronic media, who are dedicated to promoting informed and balanced reporting of economic events and activities, wealth creation, and contributing to the growth and development of the Nigerian economy and the continent of Africa.
The association’s annual conference provides the needed platform for experts and stakeholders to contribute to issues of great national importance aimed at fostering inclusive growth, unity, and national prosperity.
Online Poster by — October 13, 2025 in News
CSCS Hosts Second Webinar On T+2 Settlement Cycle Transition

Navigating Nigeria's T+2 Settlement Cycle: Expert Insights
 The Central Securities Clearing System Plc (CSCS), Nigeria’s capital market infrastructure, is set to host its second stakeholder webinar on the transition to the T+2 settlement cycle, themed “Trade Associations Roundtable: Ensuring Stakeholder Readiness for T+2 Settlement.” The webinar will hold virtually via zoom on Tuesday, 15 October 2025 at 10:00 AM.
This second webinar builds on the momentum of the first, reinforcing CSCS’s commitment to engaging stakeholders and ensuring the smooth transition of Nigeria’s capital market from the current T+3 settlement cycle to T+2 in line with global best practices.
Haruna Jalo-Waziri, MD/CEO of CSCS Plc stated “The transition to T+2 settlement is not just a regulatory milestone—it represents a collective achievement for our market. At CSCS, we recognize that the success of this transition depends on shared understanding and readiness across all stakeholder groups. This second webinar is part of our commitment to continuous engagement, ensuring that every participant in the value chain is equipped and aligned for a smooth and efficient implementation.”
The event will feature remarks from top industry leaders, including Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director General, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Temi Popoola, Chairman, CSCS Plc, and Haruna Jalo-Waziri, MD/CEO, CSCS Plc. They will be joined by key representatives from market trade associations who will share perspectives on industry preparedness.
Confirmed speakers include Samuel Onukwue, Chairman, Association of Securities Dealing Houses of Nigeria (ASHON), Babatunde Majiyagbe, President, Association of Asset Custodians of Nigeria (AACN), and Seyi Owoturo, President/Chairman of Council, Institute of Capital Market Registrars (ICMR).
The interactive session will feature a robust Q&A segment to enable participants engage directly with industry leaders and clarify operational adjustments required for the T+2 transition.
Through initiatives such as this webinar, CSCS continues to demonstrate its leadership in driving operational efficiency, market development, and alignment with international standards, ensuring that Nigeria’s capital market remains resilient and globally competitive.
Registration for the webinar is now open via this Zoom link.
Online Poster by — October 11, 2025 in News
Dangote Refinery Clarifies Feedstock Imports, Reaffirms High-Quality Petrol Production

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has dismissed recent media reports alleging that it is importing finished petrol with high sulphur content into Nigeria, describing the claims as false and misleading.

 

In a statement issued on Friday, the company explained that, as a world-scale complex refinery, it processes a wide range of crude oils and intermediate feedstocks, which is a standard global practice aimed at optimising production and product quality.

 

“The cargo in question is an intermediate feedstock, not finished petrol,” the company said. “It will be fully refined in our processing units to meet both Nigerian and international quality standards.”

 

Operating within a Free Trade Zone, Dangote Petroleum Refinery said it refines and sells only high-quality fuels that comply with all regulatory specifications. The company added that its exports of petroleum products to the United States and Europe, among the world’s most regulated markets, underscore its adherence to international benchmarks for quality and safety.

 

Dangote Refinery further noted that all imported feedstocks are accompanied by quality certificates, which are transparently shared with regulators. “We are also willing to make these documents available to the public in the interest of full transparency and accountability,” the statement added.

 

The company reaffirmed its commitment to advancing Nigeria’s energy independence, maintaining global best practices, and delivering cleaner, high-quality fuels for both domestic and international markets.

 

 

 

Read Full Statement Below

 

Clarification on Importation of Intermediate Feedstocks

 

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has noted reports claiming it is importing finished petrol (PMS) with high sulphur content into Nigeria. These reports are false, malicious, and misleading.

 

As a world-scale complex refinery, Dangote processes a range of crude oils and intermediate feedstocks, a standard global practice aimed at optimising production and quality. The cargo in question is an intermediate feedstock, not finished petrol, and will be fully refined in our units to meet Nigerian and international quality standards.

 

Operating within a Free Trade Zone, Dangote Petroleum Refinery refines and sells only high-quality fuels, compliant with all regulatory specifications. Our exports of petroleum products to the United States and Europe, among the world’s most regulated markets, underscore our adherence to global benchmarks.

 

All imports are accompanied by quality certificates and shared transparently with regulators. Dangote Petroleum Refinery is also willing to make these documents available to the public in the interest of full transparency and accountability.

 

Dangote Refinery remains fully committed to advancing Nigeria’s energy independence, upholding the highest standards of quality and transparency, and delivering cleaner fuels for Nigeria and beyond.

 

Online Poster by — October 11, 2025 in Industry
Cornerstone Insurance Celebrates Customer Service Week 2025, Reaffirms Commitment To Customer Satisfaction

Cornerstone Insurance Plc joined organizations across the globe this week in commemorating the annual Customer Service Week, which runs from October 7 to 11.

This year’s celebration carried the bold theme “Mission Impossible,” highlighting the exceptional dedication and resilience of customer service teams in delivering top-tier service in challenging environments.

Throughout the week, Cornerstone Insurance rolled out a series of staff engagement activities, customer appreciation initiatives designed to reinforce the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction. The campaign celebrated frontline service personnel as unsung heroes who go above and beyond to ensure seamless client experiences.

In a statement, the management of Cornerstone Insurance Plc emphasized that the celebration serves as both recognition and motivation. “Customer Service Week gives us the opportunity to appreciate the individuals who make our service delivery possible and to reaffirm our promise to put customers first,” the company noted.

With interactive sessions, games, and awards recognizing outstanding staff performance, the insurer underlined its dedication to fostering a culture of excellence and innovation in customer engagement.

Cornerstone Insurance Plc, a leading player in Nigeria’s insurance sector, continues to distinguish itself through a combination of digital transformation and customer-centric policies—solidifying its reputation as a dependable and forward-thinking insurer.

Online Poster by — October 10, 2025 in News