The Kogi State Government has allocated over ₦4bn to combat malaria across its healthcare system in the state. This was necessitated by the enormous concern drawn from the over 16 per cent malaria prevalence recorded in the state in 2024, which exceeds the national target of less than 10 per cent.
Governor Ahmed Ododo, through his special adviser on media, Ismail lsah disclosed this during the unveiling of a malaria prevention campaign that aims to tackle the overwhelming prevalence of malaria cases in the state, by distributing free drugs and test kits across healthcare facilities in the state.
According to him, “Ododo announced that the distribution of anti-malaria drugs, rapid diagnostic test kits, and over 3 million insecticide-treated nets to healthcare facilities is in line with the commitment of his administration to promote healthy living and the wellbeing of the people of the state”.
Ismail emphasized the encompassing effects of malaria as it affects almost everyone in the state, he reiterated the need for collective efforts to eradicate the disease in the state which he says has claimed many lives.
The governor also talks about alarming statistics from the 2024 World Malaria Report, which suggest that “Africa accounted for 94 per cent of global malaria cases in 2023, with Nigeria contributing 30 per cent of the 5,970 deaths recorded.“
According to the governor, “the intervention, supported by the Islamic Development Bank, includes over 10,000 cartons of anti-malaria drugs and test kits containing more than 1 million doses for children and nearly 2 million doses for adults, adding that the supplies will be distributed to 536 government health facilities across the state, including primary healthcare centres, general hospitals, and teaching hospitals.”
Governor Usman Ododo commended the state healthcare workers for their concerted efforts to improve healthcare results in rural areas using the minimum resources at their disposal. He described them as “soldiers battling diseases on the frontlines”.
He called on NGOs, traditional leaders, religious organizations, and various stakeholders to come together with the government to ensure the initiative’s success.
