FG Ramps Up Malaria Elimination Efforts, Calls for Stronger Community Participation

Abuja, April 17, 2026 – The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating malaria in Nigeria, unveiling intensified strategies focused on prevention, community engagement, and the adoption of global best practices.

The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Adekunle Salako, made this known on Friday in Abuja while receiving the a veteran actor and the Oloja-Elect of Lagos, Prince Jide Kosoko, who paid him a courtesy visit ahead of the 2026 World Malaria Day.

Speaking during the meeting, Salako said the government had, since 2023, adopted a more proactive and innovative approach to tackling malaria through what he described as the “Rethinking Malaria Strategy,” introduced with the backing of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He explained that the strategy departs from conventional approaches by placing greater emphasis on prevention, data-driven interventions, and multi-sectoral collaboration, while also drawing from the experiences of countries that have successfully eliminated malaria.

As part of this renewed effort, the minister said the government established the Advocacy Committee on Malaria Elimination in Nigeria (ACMEN), a global platform designed to harness expertise and strengthen advocacy for malaria eradication across the country.

Salako noted that Nigeria had recorded steady progress in reducing malaria prevalence over the years, citing a decline from about 42 per cent in 2010 to 22 per cent in 2022.

He added that further reductions had been achieved in recent years, reflecting the impact of targeted interventions and improved public health strategies.
According to him, current trends indicate a significant drop in malaria cases nationwide, with only a few states still classified under high transmission, while several others are approaching pre-elimination status.

He cited Lagos State as a leading example, noting that its low prevalence rate demonstrates the possibility of scaling successful interventions across other parts of the country.

The minister also highlighted increased compliance with the use of insecticide-treated mosquito nets, particularly among vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and children.

He said available data showed that more than 64 per cent of Nigerians now use treated nets when provided, attributing the improvement to sustained advocacy and public health campaigns.

Salako further disclosed that the National Malaria Strategic Plan had been updated to cover the 2026–2030 period, in alignment with the Health Sector Strategic Renewal Investment Initiative, aimed at ensuring a coordinated, sector-wide response.
While acknowledging the progress made, the minister stressed that government efforts alone would not be sufficient to achieve total elimination of malaria.

He called on Nigerians to take ownership of preventive measures, including maintaining clean surroundings, clearing drainages, eliminating stagnant water, and consistently using insecticide-treated nets.
He also cautioned against the common practice of self-medication without proper diagnosis.

“Not every fever is malaria. It is important that individuals get tested before commencing treatment and adhere strictly to prescribed medications when malaria is confirmed,” he said.

Earlier, Kosoko commended the government’s efforts in addressing malaria and pledged to support ongoing initiatives through grassroots sensitisation and advocacy.
He said he had been engaging students and communities across Lagos and Abuja, educating them on the dangers of malaria and the importance of preventive practices.

Kosoko emphasised the need for stronger community involvement in the fight against malaria, noting that sustainable success would depend largely on public awareness and behavioural change.

The meeting, held under the IMPACT Project, was attended by senior officials of the ministry, including representatives of the Permanent Secretary, the Director of Public Health, and the National Coordinator of the National Malaria Elimination Programme.

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