The World Health Organisation (WHO) and key stakeholders have called upon the Nigerian Government to prioritize investments in data collection and sustainable strategies for combatting malaria within the nation.
This call was made during the Ministerial Roundtable Meeting themed “Rethinking Malaria Elimination in Nigeria,” held in Abuja. Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO’s Regional Director for Africa, emphasized the critical role of accurate and reliable data in accelerating Nigeria’s efforts to combat malaria. She stressed the need for increased investment in gathering local community data to enhance the effectiveness of malaria eradication initiatives.
Dr. Moeti underscored, “Political commitment translated into action, as demonstrated by Nigeria’s increased budget allocation, is paramount for driving change in our countries.” Prof. Mohammed Ali Pate, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, highlighted the country’s deployment of tools aimed at reducing the malaria burden. He appealed for support from partners to invest in malaria control and elimination, including the local production of anti-malarial drugs.
The minister emphasized the crucial involvement of community leaders from diverse sectors in the fight against malaria, stating that collective efforts are essential for success. He stressed, “Mobilizing community leaders, including traditional, religious, and private sector leaders, is vital for addressing the malaria challenge.”
Meanwhile, he emphasized the need for Nigerians to transition from idealism to pragmatism, setting high ambitions while focusing on realistic goals to depart from conventional practices.
