FG launches malaria pre-elimination, digitisation programme

The Federal Government has taken a significant step towards eliminating malaria by 2030 with the launch of the malaria pre-elimination and digitisation programme in Lagos State, aimed at improving malaria diagnosis, case management, and accurate tracking of cases through digital health solutions.

The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, while laughing at the programme in Lagos State on Tuesday, explained that it is in line with the Federal Ministry of Health’s ‘Rethinking Malaria’ concept, launched in April 2024.

He also said the concept aims to fast-track malaria elimination through strategic shifts, including the inauguration of the Advisory on Malaria Elimination in Nigeria (AMEN) and the development of a pragmatic costed plan of action.

Salako stressed that Lagos State has consistently had the lowest malaria prevalence in Nigeria, with a prevalence rate of 2% in 2021.

He expressed confidence that the state possesses the needed attributes to drive Nigeria towards malaria elimination.

“The program focuses on the private sector, which provides healthcare services to about 50-60% of patients in Nigeria,” he said.

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Salako further noted that there is a discrepancy in malaria positivity rates within different sectors of the healthcare system in Lagos State, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to combat malaria.

He said, “The National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP) has collaborated with the World Health Organization and Maisha Meds Foundation to complement the Lagos State Government’s efforts through the World Bank IMPACT project.

“The project aims to achieve malaria elimination through public-private sector synergy, leveraging digital solutions, enhancing diagnostic accuracy, and addressing malaria-negative fever protocols.”

He assured that the changes in the US government’s policy on global health funding will not affect Nigeria’s malaria elimination program, thanks to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval of a robust mechanism for adequate and cost-effective funding.

The minister commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the health team led by Professor Akin Abayomi for initiating and executing the project. He also appreciated the partners and implementers, including the World Bank and WHO, for their support.

The launch of the program is expected to have a significant impact on the healthcare sector in Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole. With the integration of digital health solutions, the program aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of malaria diagnosis and treatment.

Salako also emphasized the importance of community engagement and participation in the fight against malaria. He encouraged residents of Lagos State to take ownership of the program and to work together to eliminate malaria.

“The program’s focus on the private sector is also expected to have a positive impact on the healthcare industry in Nigeria. By leveraging the expertise and resources of the private sector, the program aims to improve the quality and accessibility of healthcare services,” he said.