Nigeria remains the country most burdened by malaria globally, despite substantial investments and decades of intervention efforts.
According to the World Health Organisation’s 2024 World Malaria Report, Nigeria accounts for over 25% of the world’s malaria cases and deaths, with an estimated 68 million cases and 194,000 deaths annually.
Dr. Muhammad Ali Pate, Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, attributes this persistent challenge to a combination of factors, including insufficient focus and commitment over the years.
He noted that despite the Abuja Declaration on Roll Back Malaria in 2000, which set ambitious goals for disease control, Nigeria still bears a significant portion of the global malaria burden.
In response, the Nigerian government has initiated several strategic measures to combat the disease. These include the introduction of the Oxford R21 vaccine, which has shown over 75% efficacy in preventing severe malaria among young children. The vaccine rollout began in Bayelsa and Kebbi states, with plans for nationwide distribution.
Also, the government is implementing an integrated approach to malaria prevention, combining the distribution of insecticide-treated bed nets, antimalarial medicines, and seasonal malaria chemoprevention.
This approach aims to maximise reach and impact, particularly in the northern states.
Despite these efforts, challenges persist, including logistical issues, funding constraints, and resistance to interventions in some communities.
Nevertheless, Dr. Pate emphasises the importance of sustained commitment and a multi-sectoral approach involving government, communities, and international partners to achieve malaria elimination in Nigeria.
The Nigerian government continues to collaborate with international partners, including the Global Fund and the United States government, which have invested over $900 million in malaria, HIV/AIDS, and tuberculosis programs in the country.
Also Read:
Divine intervention blocked Adeleke’s defection to our party — APC
Trump blasts US judges over deportation ruling
Anambra govt warns of traffic disruptions ahead of Tinubu’s visit
cc: Daily Post Ng
