By Abraham Oladipupo
The biblical mandate for humanity to care for God’s creation received scientific affirmation recently as Pastor Olutayo Falodun, Oyo District Coordinator of Life and Peace Eternal-word Mission (LAPEM) and lecturer in the Department of Microbiology, University of Ibadan, called for a holistic approach to human, animal and environmental health.
Pastor Falodun made the call while delivering the Faculty of Science Lecture at the University of Ibadan titled “Navigating the Interconnectivity of Antimicrobial Resistance at the Interface of One Health.”
Drawing from scientific research and practical realities, the renowned microbiologist explained that the health of humans, animals and the environment are intricately connected, making it impossible to effectively protect one without safeguarding the others.
The lecture echoed the biblical principle of stewardship found in Genesis, where God entrusted mankind with the responsibility of caring for the earth and all living creatures. According to Pastor Falodun, the growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance serves as a reminder that neglecting any aspect of God’s creation can have far-reaching consequences.
He noted that antimicrobial resistance, which occurs when disease-causing organisms become resistant to treatment, is no longer restricted to hospitals or healthcare facilities. Resistant organisms found in humans are increasingly being detected in animals and the environment, demonstrating the interconnectedness of all living systems.
“What we find in humans, we also find in animals, and we also find in the environment,” he explained. “There is constant interaction among all three, and what affects one can ultimately affect the others.”
The scientist-cleric warned against the indiscriminate use of antibiotics, particularly in animal husbandry, where the drugs are sometimes administered for growth promotion rather than genuine medical purposes. Such practices, he said, contribute significantly to the emergence of resistant organisms that can eventually affect human populations.
According to him, antibiotic residues and resistant bacteria can enter the food chain through animal products consumed by humans, reducing the effectiveness of life-saving medications when they are most needed.
Beyond the scientific implications, Pastor Falodun challenged individuals to embrace responsibility and discipline in their health decisions. He specifically cautioned against self-medication, describing it as a dangerous practice driven largely by ignorance and impatience.
He emphasized that proper diagnosis remains essential in healthcare and that treatment decisions should involve collaboration among doctors, laboratory scientists and pharmacists.
“The inconvenience of medical investigations is far less than the consequences of antimicrobial resistance,” he said, urging people to seek professional medical advice rather than relying on assumptions and self-prescribed medications.
The lecture highlighted how faith and science can complement one another in addressing societal challenges. While scientific evidence provides solutions to public health threats, biblical values encourage responsible stewardship, obedience, wisdom and care for others.
Speaking after the lecture, the Dean of the Faculty of Science, Professor I.A. Oladosu, commended the quality of research being undertaken by scientists within the university and emphasized the importance of supporting local research efforts.
The Dean noted that researchers at the University of Ibadan are actively investigating solutions to various health challenges, including emerging infectious diseases such as Ebola. He maintained that Nigerian scientists possess the talent and expertise to compete globally but require greater financial support and access to modern research facilities.
Professor Oladosu also described the Faculty Lecture Series as an important platform for showcasing scientific discovery and encouraging upcoming researchers.