The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Daju Kachollom, has highlighted the urgent need for Nigeria to prioritize prevention, strengthen health systems, and ensure access to effective diagnosis and treatment for all to achieve the malaria elimination target. Kachollom emphasized that Nigeria bears a significant burden of malaria, accounting for 27 percent of global malaria cases and 31 percent of global malaria deaths, according to the 2023 World Malaria Report issued by the World Health Organization.
Kachollom expressed concern over the country’s consistent position as a major contributor to the global malaria burden. Despite these challenges, she acknowledged the progress made in combating malaria over the years. She cited data from the World Health Organization, which indicated a 26 percent reduction in malaria incidence in Nigeria since 2000, from 413 cases per 1,000 population to 306 cases per 1,000 population in 2021. Additionally, malaria mortality rate decreased by 55 percent, from 2.1 deaths per 1,000 population at risk in 2000 to 0.9 deaths per 1,000 population in 2021.
Kachollom’s remarks underscore the importance of addressing the significant public health challenge posed by malaria in Nigeria. The call to prioritize prevention, strengthen health systems, and ensure access to effective diagnosis and treatment aligns with the global efforts to eliminate malaria.
The impact of malaria on public health and socioeconomic development in Nigeria cannot be overstated. It is imperative for the government, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders and partners, to intensify efforts towards malaria control and elimination. This entails investing in robust prevention strategies, strengthening health infrastructure, and ensuring that all individuals have access to prompt and effective diagnosis and treatment.
As Nigeria works towards achieving the malaria elimination target, sustained commitment, resource allocation, and collaborative partnerships will be crucial. The progress made in reducing malaria incidence and mortality rates demonstrates that concerted efforts yield positive outcomes. By prioritizing malaria elimination and implementing evidence-based interventions, Nigeria can make further strides in reducing the burden of this debilitating disease and improving the health and well-being of its population.
