The Federal Government says Nigeria has recorded significant progress in its malaria control efforts, with updated data showing that no state in the country is currently classified as a high-transmission area. The development was disclosed at a forum in Abuja titled “The Science of Defeating Malaria,” according to a report by Radio Nigeria.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, said the latest malaria stratification shows 27 states are now in the moderate-transmission category, while nine states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), fall under low transmission. He was represented by the Director-General of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Dr Kelechi Ohiri.
He attributed the progress to sustained interventions led by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, working with the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP), state governments, development partners, and frontline health workers. He noted that expanded access to insecticide-treated mosquito nets, improved use of rapid diagnostic tests, and wider availability of effective treatment have contributed to the gains.
Health workers were also highlighted as key to the progress, particularly in rural areas where malaria burden remains highest. Professor Pate also referenced the National Malaria Strategic Plan (2025–2030), which aims to reduce malaria deaths by 50 per cent, in line with the World Health Organization (WHO) 2030 targets. He stressed the need for stronger data systems and evidence-based decision-making to close gaps such as missed interventions, resistance patterns, and delayed diagnosis.
“All these data streams must come together to guide timely decisions at all levels,” he said.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional collaboration, including support for an ECOWAS malaria elimination framework, improved surveillance systems, and cross-border coordination, expressing optimism that elimination remains achievable with sustained effort.
Also speaking, a representative of the African Office of the European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP), Dr Olusola Ayoola, said the initiative supports malaria research and capacity building across Sub-Saharan Africa.
The Coordinator of the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP), Dr Nnenna Chizaram Ogbulafor, said the programme has supported over 42 grants and sponsored women from 16 African countries for malaria leadership development.
https://radionigeria.gov.ng/2026/06/09/fg-records-major-gains-in-nigerias-malaria-battle
English