Sokoto Governor Launches 2026 Malaria Prevention Campaign

On Wednesday, Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto launched the 2026 Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention (SMC) campaign in Wamakko Local Government Area, reaffirming his administration's commitment to reducing malaria-related illnesses and deaths among children. The campaign targets children aged three to 59 months during the peak rainy season, a period when malaria poses a significant public health threat due to increased mosquito breeding.

Aliyu praised the Sokoto State Ministry of Health, the State Malaria Elimination Agency, the National Malaria Elimination Programme, Malaria Consortium, and other partners for their ongoing support. He highlighted that administering monthly doses of antimalarial medicines could reduce malaria cases by up to 75%, leading to fewer hospital admissions and saved lives.

The governor also recognized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support in reducing malaria's burden. Dr.

Faruk Umar Wurno, the Commissioner for Health, noted improvements in healthcare services under Aliyu's Nine-Point SMART Agenda. Alhaji Ahmed Barade, representing the Sultan of Sokoto, pledged the traditional institution's support for government health programs.