A simple strategy for improving the antibacterial properties of ZrNT via decoration with AgNp/ Ag 2 O was described. This involves the electrochemical anodization of Zr-Ag alloy to form ZrNT/ Ag 2 O composite material embedded with AgNp along the length of the nanotube while also preserving the nanotubular morphology that can promote cellular integration and potentially be modified for multifunctionality. The composite nanomaterial was found to be an effective antibacterial agent against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus killing more than 99.9 % of bacteria of the initial inoculum after 1 day, with 10µg/L of release silver ion. The Ag ion release was at a controlled and relatively constant rate for the 10 days monitored. ZrNT showed antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli even without any modification, and this indicates the activity of zirconium ions and the impact of nanotubular topography especially against gram-negative bacteria, that might even act synergistic with the effect of silver ions. Conclusively, it has been demonstrated that ZrNT decorated with AgNp can be a promising candidate as a coating on implant material in preventing the incidence of biomaterial-related infections.