The World Health Organization (WHO) calls for a data-driven strategy to address the enduring challenge of malaria in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for equitable resource allocation and intensified partnerships to accelerate progress.
In a roundtable discussion on Rethinking Malaria Elimination in Nigeria, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus underscored the critical importance of equitable resource distribution and robust partnerships in the fight against malaria. Despite Nigeria’s progress, malaria remains a significant burden, accounting for over half of hospital visits and a disproportionate number of global deaths, particularly among children and pregnant women.
Dr. Ghebreyesus commended Nigeria’s commitment to the Yaoundé Declaration, which aims to reduce malaria-related deaths, highlighting recent strides in translating political pledges into tangible action and resources. He emphasized the pivotal role of innovative tools, such as the world’s first malaria vaccine and enhanced bed nets, in conjunction with existing interventions and community engagement.
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Echoing Dr. Ghebreyesus’s sentiments, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate lamented the persistent rise in annual malaria-related deaths despite substantial investments. He stressed the urgent need for a paradigm shift in addressing the constraints hindering the efficient delivery of malaria control strategies and embracing forthcoming innovations.
Prof. Pate reflected on the Abuja Declaration on Roll Back Malaria, signed over two decades ago, noting progress made while acknowledging persistent challenges. Although funding for malaria control efforts has increased, significant gaps remain, exacerbated by dwindling healthcare budgets across the continent.
Minister of State for Health Dr. Tunji Alausa highlighted the pervasive impact of malaria on healthcare utilization and childhood mortality in Nigeria. While acknowledging some progress through interventions like insecticidal nets and effective treatments, Dr. Alausa emphasized the ongoing burden of malaria across all age groups and its adverse effects on productivity.
Dr. Alausa reaffirmed Nigeria’s determination to create an enabling environment for development partners and mobilize resources to combat malaria effectively. He underscored the need for collective action and sustained efforts to address the persistent challenge posed by malaria, which continues to affect communities nationwide.
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