In a bid to combat malaria more effectively, the World Health Organisation (WHO) and various stakeholders are advising the Nigerian Government to focus on investing in data and sustainable strategies for malaria elimination in the nation.
During the Ministerial Roundtable Meeting dubbed “Rethinking Malaria Elimination in Nigeria” in Abuja, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, the regional director for Africa at WHO, emphasized the crucial role of accurate and reliable data in accelerating efforts against malaria.
Dr. Moeti highlighted the imperative for Nigeria to enhance its data collection efforts at the local level to expedite progress in the fight against malaria.
She pointed out the significance of political commitment being translated into proactive measures, citing Nigeria’s increased budget allocation as a positive step towards combatting malaria.
Prof. Mohammed Ali Pate, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, revealed that the country is deploying effective tools to alleviate malaria’s burden.
He appealed for partner support in investment for malaria control and elimination, which includes promoting local production of anti-malaria medications. He underscored the crucial role of community leaders from various sectors, stressing that addressing malaria necessitates collective action.
Prof. Pate emphasized the importance of Nigerian stakeholders collaborating to tackle the malaria issue collectively, highlighting that the solution lies within local community leaders, traditional and religious figures, and private sector leaders uniting forces.
He emphasized the transition from idealistic thinking to pragmatic approaches, urging Nigerians to set high goals while remaining realistic to deviate from conventional practices.