Malaria continues to drain Nigeria’s economy, with annual losses exceeding $1.1 billion, according to Prof. Muhammad Pate, the Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare. Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the Advisory on Malaria Elimination in Nigeria, held in Abuja, Pate emphasized the critical need for decisive action to address the health and economic burden of the disease.

Describing malaria as a national emergency, Pate revealed that Nigeria accounts for 27% of global malaria cases and 31% of deaths worldwide, with the disease causing the tragic loss of over 180,000 children under the age of five in 2022 alone. “This is not just a health crisis; it is an economic and developmental emergency,” Pate remarked, noting that malaria reduces productivity, increases healthcare costs, and exacerbates poverty.

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The newly unveiled Advisory on Malaria Elimination is tasked with leading the charge against malaria, providing expert guidance and solutions to help the country break free from the cycle of disease and economic loss. The initiative aligns with the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, part of the current administration’s renewed hope agenda.

Dr. Iziaq Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, stressed the importance of a coordinated approach, calling on the private sector, international partners, healthcare workers, and communities to join forces in the fight against malaria. The advisory body, led by global expert Prof. Rose Leke, is dedicated to advancing evidence-based strategies and ensuring that malaria elimination remains a top priority for all levels of government.