The Federal Government has warned that Nigeria may not meet the global target of eliminating malaria unless more local resources, especially funding, are mobilized.
It said that 90 percent of malaria cases worldwide are found in Nigeria and some other African countries, making it urgent for homegrown solutions and stronger support from local stakeholders.
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, made this known in Abuja on Thursday during The Big Push Malaria Conference with the theme: “Harnessing Africa’s Central Role for the Big Push Against Malaria.”
The minister noted that Nigeria and Africa rely too much on international donors in the fight against malaria, despite carrying the highest burden. He asked: “Have we truly owned this fight? Or are we still waiting for solutions from Geneva and other places instead of taking charge locally?”
He appreciated the billions of dollars already spent by partners like the Global Fund and the Gates Foundation, but stressed that African countries must see malaria as their own problem and commit domestic resources. According to him, until that happens, elimination may not be realistic.
Prof. Pate also expressed worry about the low acceptance of malaria vaccines in pilot states like Bayelsa and Kebbi. He assured that the government is working with relevant agencies to increase awareness.
He further suggested that the Roll Back Malaria (RBM) Partnership should move its headquarters back to Africa since the continent bears most of the burden.
Lynda Ozo, who represented the Malaria Technical Working Group, said the conference is a chance to face issues such as sustainable funding, poverty, security challenges, climate change, and weak collaboration across sectors.
She noted that, despite the hurdles, with new tools, strong leadership, and national commitment, Nigeria can speed up its efforts to eliminate malaria.
National Coordinator of the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP), Dr. Nnenna Ogbulafor, said malaria requires strong local action and funding. She added that Nigeria is working to produce some malaria tools locally, instead of depending on imports, which will also create jobs.
She said over 600 million insecticide-treated nets have been distributed, but all were produced abroad. With local manufacturing on the way, Nigeria will soon benefit from homegrown solutions.
The Chief Executive Officer of RBM Partnership to End Malaria, Dr. Micheal Charles, praised Nigeria’s efforts and assured that the global body will continue to support malaria elimination across Africa.
Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, Leprosy, and Malaria Control, Godwin Ogah, pledged legislative support. He called for a dedicated budget line for malaria in Nigeria’s national budget, as practiced in other African countries.
He said Africa is at a critical stage in the fight against malaria and must act urgently to meet the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This will require stronger partnerships, innovation, local solutions, and community involvement.
He urged African leaders to drive political will and show commitment so that the continent can reduce malaria and protect vulnerable groups, especially women and children.
