Nigeria Makes Progress in Malaria Control, WHO Reports
Abuja — The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized Nigeria’s advancements in malaria prevention and control, highlighting notable reductions in infection rates and increased access to treatment options across the country.
At a recent National Dissemination Meeting for the Enhance Project, a collaboration between the Malaria Consortium and state health authorities, WHO Malaria Programme Manager, Dr. Lynda Ozor, shared insights from a Malaria Indicator Survey conducted last year. The results illuminate a promising trend in decreasing malaria prevalence.
In 2010, the malaria prevalence in Nigeria stood at a staggering 42%. By 2021, this figure dropped to 22%, and recent data indicates that the decline continues. Dr. Ozor emphasized that the country’s serious commitment to malaria control, through integrated strategies, has made a significant difference. “We are now seeing the benefits of those efforts,” she remarked.
The WHO attributes this progress to a combination of factors. Enhanced surveillance systems, the widespread distribution of insecticide-treated nets, expanded seasonal malaria chemoprevention programs, and improved case management have collectively made a significant impact. These joint efforts are beginning to produce tangible results, according to the WHO.
While addressing potential safety concerns surrounding the malaria vaccine currently rolled out in select states, Dr. Ozor reassured the public that these vaccines received WHO’s endorsement only after comprehensive evaluations. She noted that Nigeria’s National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) conducts its own thorough assessments to ensure vaccine safety.
Dr. Ozor dismissed misinformation regarding the vaccine’s side effects or its alleged role in population control as baseless and often propagated by anti-vaccine groups. She cited the RTSS malaria vaccine, which underwent nearly 34 years of intensive research and trials, confirming its safety and minimal side effects, comparable to many medications, including mild headaches.
Despite historical vaccine hesitancy in some communities, the introduction of the malaria vaccine has been met with enthusiasm in various areas. “Many communities have eagerly anticipated this vaccine and welcomed its introduction,” she said.
The WHO commended the collaborative work of the Nigerian Federal Government, regional authorities, and various development partners. The organization underscored the importance of continued funding, community involvement, and strategic initiatives to solidify the progress made thus far and move towards the elimination of malaria as a public health concern.
Dr. Nnenna Chizaram Ogbulafor, National Coordinator for the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP), mentioned that Nigeria commenced the administration of the malaria vaccine in 2024, launching the initiative in Kebbi and Bayelsa States, with Bauchi State recently added to the rollout plan.
Representing Dr. Ogbulafor, Dr. Shekarau Emmanuel explained that the Enhance Project was initiated to bolster vaccine uptake, particularly after realization that coverage had fallen below expectations. The malaria vaccine involves a sequence of four doses administered at five, six, and seven months, with a booster shot at 15 months, integrated into Nigeria’s routine immunization schedule.
Dr. Kolawole Maxwell, Programme Director for West and Central Africa at Malaria Consortium, confirmed that although the vaccine has demonstrated its effectiveness, the real benefits can only be achieved if it reaches all eligible children. The Enhance Project is actively exploring innovative strategies, including utilizing existing seasonal malaria chemoprevention teams to encourage parents to ensure their children are vaccinated.
The WHO and Nigerian health authorities remain committed to this fight against malaria, determined to maintain the momentum of progress and ultimately eradicate this dangerous disease from the nation.
— Reported by Nexio News
