Antibiotic Resistant Patterns of Bacterial Species Isolated among Hybrid Chicken Meat Sold within Makurdi Metropolis

Antibiotic resistance is a growing global public health concern, with foodborne pathogens posing significant risks through contaminated poultry products. This study assessed the antibiotic-resistant patterns of bacterial species isolated among hybrid chicken meat sold within Makurdi metropolis, Nigeria. A total of 36 chicken meat samples were collected, six (6) each from the major markets (Wurukum, High Level, Wadata, Northbank, Railway, and Modern Markets) and analyzed for bacterial contamination. Samples from different anatomical parts (mouth, blood, lap, gut, and skin) were processed using standard microbiological techniques, including serial dilution, culturing on selective media (Nutrient Agar, MacConkey Agar, EMB, and Salmonella Shigella Agar), and biochemical identification. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using the disc diffusion method, following standard guidelines. Results revealed significant (P<0.05) bacterial contamination, with the gut exhibiting the highest microbial load (2.69 × 10⁷ CFU/mL). The most prevalent isolates were Enterobacter spp. (28.15%), followed by Escherichia coli (20.74%), while Salmonella spp. (14.44%) was the least. Antibiotic susceptibility testing showed that Gram-negative bacteria were highly sensitive to penicillin, pefloxacin, and gentamicin, while Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus were most susceptible to erythromycin and gentamicin. Data analysis confirmed significant differences (P < 0.05) in resistance patterns among isolates. The prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in hybrid chicken meat, may be due to indiscriminate antibiotic use in poultry farming and poor hygiene practices. This study highlights a substantial risk of bacterial contamination in hybrid chicken meat within Makurdi and underscores the need for improved hygiene practices, regular microbial surveillance, and rational antibiotic use.