Yahya Lawan- President AMR Club, BUK.


As the world observes this year’s World Antimicrobial Awareness Week, the spotlight shines on individuals and groups working tirelessly to combat the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Among them is Yahya Lawan Rimin Kebe, a 500-level pharmacy student at Bayero University Kano and the president of the university's Antimicrobial Resistance Club. In this conversation, Yahya shares insights into the club's efforts, their activities during this critical awareness week, and the role of young professionals in addressing the global AMR challenge. 


RX: What are the primary objectives of your club, and how do you aim to achieve them?

The primary objectives of our club are 

  • Educating university students and the public about AMR.
  • Promoting AMR stewardship among university students and the public.
  • Raising awareness about the dangers of AMR and how the community can help prevent it.

We aim to achieve these objectives by training club members, conducting community engagement activities, and becoming AMR stewards.

RX: How does your club contribute to raising awareness about antimicrobial resistance (AMR) on your campus and in the community?

We carry out campus activities such as seminars, rallies, awareness programs, and lectures on AMR. In the community, we conduct outreach programs.

RX: What are the most common misconceptions about AMR that you encounter among students and the general public?

Most common misconceptions include 

  • Misinterpreting drug abuse as AMR.
  • Believing that AMR only happens with antibacterials.
  • Thinking that antibiotics can treat common flu.

RX: How does your club address these misconceptions and promote accurate information about AMR?

We address these misconceptions through education, awareness campaigns, and clear explanations.

Students of GGSS Dukawuya listening to the lecuture on Anti-microbial resistance.

RX: Can you share some of the most impactful activities or initiatives your club has undertaken to combat AMR?

We have conducted awareness campaigns on various radio stations, reaching millions of listeners across Kano State. We have also carried out outreach programs at primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions, targeting thousands of students.

RX: What are some of the challenges you face in organizing and implementing your club's activities?

We often face technical challenges, a common problem in Nigeria. Poverty is also a major challenge, as many people cannot afford to purchase quality drugs in the prescribed dosage. Patent medicine vendors, who often dispense antimicrobials inappropriately, contribute to the development of AMR. Additionally, many people lack adequate knowledge about AMR.

RX: How has your involvement with the club personally impacted your understanding of AMR and your commitment to public health?

I have personally learned a lot about AMR since joining the program and have become a public health advocate.

RX: What are your future goals for the club, and how do you envision its role in addressing the global AMR crisis?

Our goal is to become the best student organization in Nigeria working to combat AMR.

RX: How is your club celebrating Antimicrobial Resistance Week this year?

The AMR Club at BUK is celebrating World Antimicrobial Awareness Week 2024 by organizing social media campaigns and a community outreach program at Government Girls Secondary School Duƙawuya, in collaboration with ADMAP, 100 AMR STEWARDS, and the Pharma Incubation Hub (PIH).

Some members of AMR Club BUK at GGSS Dukawuya during their recent community outreach.

RX: What message do you want to convey to the public about the importance of addressing AMR and the role individuals can play in combating it?

AMR is a serious global health issue. We should all become AMR stewards and educate the public about the dangers of AMR.

  • Use antimicrobials with caution, only when prescribed by a medical professional.
  • Complete the full course of antimicrobial medication.
  • Avoid purchasing antimicrobials from patent medicine vendors without a prescription.