Kogi State Launches Malaria Eradication Initiative

Kogi State is committed to eradicating malaria through a comprehensive initiative that includes free testing and treatment across its 21 local government areas. Dr.

Abdulazeez Adam Adeiza, the State Commissioner for Health, announced this plan during a speech in Lokoja on World Malaria Day, emphasizing the importance of addressing malaria, which significantly affects morbidity and mortality rates, especially among children under five and pregnant women. Nigeria accounts for 24% of the global malaria burden.

The state has made notable progress, reducing malaria prevalence from 24% in 2015 to 16% in 2021, with a target of 8-9% by 2025, according to the National Malaria Indicator Survey. The initiative involves partnerships with organizations like the Malaria Consortium and Famkris Healthcare Initiative, focusing on community awareness, data management, and capacity building.

The state government aims to achieve zero malaria prevalence by 2026, supported by various stakeholders and health workers across the local government areas.