By Joy Odor
The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially launched the Surveillance and Prescribing Support for Antimicrobial Stewardship Resource Capacity Building (SPARC) App, a digital innovation aimed at curbing the growing threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and promoting rational antibiotic use across the nation’s health sector.
Unveiled at a high-level event in Abuja, the SPARC App was declared live by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, who described the platform as a critical tool in safeguarding the efficacy of life-saving antimicrobials.
The Minister, represented by Pharmacist (Mrs) Olubunmi Aribeana, Director of the Food and Drug Services Department, emphasized the urgency of responsible antibiotic use in Nigeria.
“Antimicrobial Resistance is one of the most serious global public health threats of our time,” Prof. Pate said. “The SPARC App is more than a digital tool—it is a frontline defense in our efforts to protect lives and preserve the power of medicines for future generations.”
Developed in collaboration with the Commonwealth Pharmacists Association (CPA) and supported by the Fleming Fund, the SPARC App integrates Nigeria’s Standard Treatment Guidelines (NSTG) and includes both national and global protocols for managing infectious diseases including COVID-19.
Guidelines for antimicrobial use in animals are expected to be added upon approval.
Designed for use exclusively by healthcare professionals doctors, pharmacists, and authorized prescribers the App provides evidence-based guidance to promote consistent, effective, and safe prescribing practices.
It aims to reduce misuse, ensure appropriate dosing and duration, and limit the emergence of drug-resistant infections.
“The App aligns with Nigeria’s National Action Plan on AMR (NAP 2.0), which supports a One Health approach involving human, animal, and environmental sectors,” Prof. Pate noted.
He urged healthcare providers nationwide to integrate the SPARC App into their daily practice and provide user feedback to further enhance its impact.
In her remarks, Pharm. Aribeana, represented by Mr. Tunde Atanda, Director of the National Food Safety and Quality Programme, praised the collaborative effort behind the project.
“The SPARC App is a model of multisectoral partnership between the Federal Ministries of Health, Livestock Development, and Environment, as well as the NCDC and international stakeholders,” she said.
Already deployed in 22 Commonwealth countries, the SPARC App is poised to transform antibiotic stewardship in Nigeria and play a vital role in reversing treatment failures driven by resistance.
“Today marks a new chapter in Nigeria’s fight against AMR,” Prof. Pate concluded. “Let us all embrace this innovation and secure the future of medicine.”
