Abstract
Antimicrobial use (AMU) in animals, including poultry, can contribute to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in humans. With a rising middle class and demand for meat in sub-Saharan Africa's second largest poultry producer, Nigeria, AMU in food-producing animals is predicted to continue rising. Interventions to reduce AMR and AMU are limited in low- and middle-income countries, including Nigeria. This study aimed to understand the current AMU practices, challenges and motivators and barriers to adopting AMR interventions in the Nigerian poultry sector. Qualitative semistructured interviews (n = 22) were conducted in Nigeria consisting of poultry farmers, animal health professionals and other related key players. Thematic analysis identified three themes surrounding barriers and challenges: (i) 'issues of access' relating to time, money, laboratories and expertise, (ii) 'lack of knowledge' due to lack of training and poor relationships between farmers and animal health professionals and (iii) 'taking responsibility' with participants describing a lack of responsibility from both the government and other animal health professionals, para-professionals and farmers and how social responsibility was key to motivating people. Overall, the results from this study highlighted the wide range of barriers to engaging animal health professionals and farmers in AMR interventions and improving AMU practices in sub-Saharan Africa. If interventions are to succeed, they need to reflect a collaborative and multifaceted effort from all invested parties.