The United Kingdom has pledged approximately £1 billion to the global fund for malaria and other diseases in Nigeria from 2024 to 2026. Ebere Anyachukwu, Health Adviser at the British High Commission (BHC), revealed this during a World Malaria Day event in Abuja. The UK government’s contribution is designated to a global fund that mobilizes resources to combat diseases, including malaria, in Nigeria. Anyachukwu emphasized that the UK’s donation would supplement funds from other donors and be managed by the global fund to address malaria and related illnesses in Nigeria.
He explained that the allocated funds would cover expenses such as insecticides, treated bed nets, diagnostic testing for malaria, and chemo-preventive measures in states where malaria is seasonal. Anyachukwu highlighted the significant impact of these interventions, noting a notable reduction in malaria-related deaths among children in Nigeria.
Furthermore, the Federal Ministry of Health affirmed Nigeria’s progress in the fight against malaria but emphasized the need for continued collaborative efforts to achieve better outcomes. Godwin Ntadon, National Coordinator of the National Malaria Elimination Programme, disclosed plans to review and launch new strategies to combat malaria effectively. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders, including the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, to ensure the success of these initiatives.
Representatives from various organizations, including UNICEF and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, pledged their support for malaria control efforts in Nigeria during the event. They echoed the theme of “Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world” and emphasized the importance of community involvement in malaria prevention and treatment.
In another development, Ebonyi State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Moses Ekuma, addressed the prevalence of malaria in the state during a press briefing for World Malaria Day. He highlighted malaria as a significant cause of hospital attendance, particularly among pregnant women and children under five years old. Dr. Ekuma emphasized the state government’s commitment to malaria control through various interventions, including distribution of insecticide-treated nets and provision of free malaria testing and treatment services. He noted a gradual reduction in malaria cases in the state due to these efforts.
