Assessment of knowledge, awareness, and attitudes towards antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among public workers in Kuje Area Council, FCT Abuja

Abstract Background Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical global public health threat which is accelerated by the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials in humans, animals, and agriculture, as well as poor infection prevention and control measures. In Kuje Arae Council (KAC), AMR has silently become a neglected health burden leading to prolonged hospital stays, higher medical costs, and increased mortality. Methods This cross-sectional study assessed the knowledge, awareness, and attitudes towards AMR among 403 public workers in KAC, FCT Abuja, selected via multistage sampling. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire and analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics. Results Findings revealed that public workers possessed adequate knowledge (p = 0.000) and a moderate awareness of AMR's causes and consequences (p = 0.000). Their attitudes towards antimicrobial use and AMR management were moderately positive (p = 0.000). A significant, strong positive correlation was found between knowledge and attitudes (r = 0.879, p = 0.000). Healthcare professionals were identified as the most credible source of AMR information (66.8%). Sociodemographic factors significantly influenced outcomes (p < 0.05). Conclusions The study concludes that while public workers in Kuje have adequate foundational knowledge and positive attitudes, gaps persist in understanding biological mechanisms and policies. The strong knowledge-attitude link highlights the importance of education. Therefore, intensified, targeted awareness campaigns, regular training, and leveraging healthcare professionals as AMR ambassadors are recommended to improve antimicrobial stewardship.