Nigeria Inaugurates Advisory Group for Malaria Elimination, Targets 2025 Milestone

Nigeria has launched a groundbreaking initiative to tackle its malaria burden with the inaugural meeting of the Advisory for Malaria Elimination in Nigeria (AMEN).

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The meeting held in Abuja the nation’s capital marked a significant milestone in the nation’s efforts to eradicate malaria, a disease that continues to exact a heavy toll on its population and economy.

In his opening remarks, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, commended the voluntary efforts of the advisory group composed of global health experts and key stakeholders.

He emphasized the importance of evidence-based strategies in reducing malaria prevalence and mortality, while setting Nigeria on the path to becoming malaria-free.

“With Nigeria having the highest malaria burden globally, the disease significantly contributes to morbidity, mortality, economic hardship, food insecurity, and poverty. Its control and elimination are central to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s priority agenda, particularly regarding food security and poverty reduction,” Dr. Salako stated.

The Minister outlined Nigeria’s strategy, emphasizing the adoption of innovative approaches under the “Rethinking Malaria Elimination” framework.

“Key initiatives include enhanced surveillance systems, community engagement, the use of innovative technologies, and expanding private sector involvement. These steps are intended to address emerging challenges such as drug resistance and the effects of climate change on malaria control efforts”. He added.

Highlighting the importance of collaboration, Dr. Salako called for a Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) to foster harmonized efforts among government agencies, private sector partners, and international organizations.

“Leveraging on high-level political commitment, technical expertise, and robust coordination, we can accelerate malaria elimination activities and expand access to prevention and treatment services”. He noted.

Dr. Salako also acknowledged past challenges, referencing the shortfalls of previous initiatives such as the National Malaria Strategic Plan and the Nigeria End Malaria Council.

He urged stakeholders to learn from these experiences and focus on achieving the immediate goal of reducing malaria prevalence and mortality rates to below 10% by 2025.

The AMEN initiative aligns with the global vision of the World Health Organization and reinforces Nigeria’s role in the global malaria eradication agenda. The meeting concluded with renewed commitments from stakeholders to work collaboratively towards a malaria-free Nigeria.

Dr. Salako thanked participants for their dedication to public health, expressing confidence in the collective resolve to translate the malaria-free vision into reality.

“Together, we can move from vision to action, ensuring a healthier, more prosperous future for all Nigerians”. He added.