ASSESSMENT OF FARMERS KNOWLEDGE ON ANTI-MICROBIAL USE (AMU) AND ITS RESISTANCE IN THE CONTROL OF DISEASE IN SWINE PRODUCTION IN IKERE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND EKITI SOUTH WEST LOCAL GOVERNMENT, EKITI STATE

This study Assessed farmers knowledge of Anti-Microbial Use and Anti-microbial Resistance in the Control of Diseases in Swine Production in Ekiti State, The research aimed to assess pig farmers’ knowledge of antimicrobial use, knowledge of antimicrobial resistance and preventive measures adopted in the study area. A multistage sampling technique was used to select hundred respondents, and data were collected through a structured questionnaire. Findings revealed that the majority of pig farmers were male (84%), married (51%), household size (mean = 4 person) and middle-aged, with a mean age of 47 years. Most respondents (89%) were educated, 50% had medium scale herd size, with 10 years of livestock farming experience, 68% belonged to cooperative societies, while 84% had regular contact with extension agents. Veterinary doctors (65%) and personal experience (92%) were the main information sources on antimicrobial use. Results showed that farmers had a high level of awareness of AMU and AMR, However, 45% were unaware that AMU includes drugs against viruses, fungi, and bacteria, indicating a partial knowledge gap. Preventive measures such as vaccination (99%), isolation of sick pigs (100%), and proper antibiotic disposal (98%) were widely practiced. It was concluded that Most farmers adopt practices such as isolating sick animals, routine vaccination, and proper disposal of antibiotics. However, some knowledge gaps still exist, particularly regarding the specific scope and classification of antimicrobial drugs. The study recommended that there is a need for continuous education, stricter regulation of antimicrobial sales, and strengthened veterinary extension programs to ensure sustainable, safe, and effective antimicrobial use in swine production across Ekiti State.