Dr Osagie Ehanire, Nigeria’s Health Minister disclosed that the federal government’s strategic plan on combating Malaria will cost N1.89 trillion, adding that Nigeria will require the sum of N352 billion in 2021 alone.
The Minister disclosed this at the 2021 World Malaria Day in Abuja, themed theme “Zero Malaria.” He cited WHO reports which state that Nigeria recorded a drop in malaria prevalence from 42% in 2010 to 23% in 2018.
“The implementation of the new strategic plan will cost N1.89 trillion; about N352 billion is required for the year 2021 programme implementation,” the Minister said.
He disclosed that the federal government does not fully have the financial resources to tackle malaria eradication. Citing the factors needed for full zero malaria, he said: “The theme of this year’s commemoration is Zero Malaria – Draw the Line Against Malaria, and the slogan ‘Stand Up, Take Action’ which is to empower communities in various countries to take ownership of preventing malaria and providing proper care and treatment to those in need.”
He disclosed that the recent Malaria vaccine study by Oxford could become the key weapon in eliminating the disease, which is responsible for half a million deaths a year, mostly in children.
What you should know
The University of Oxford disclosed on Friday that its malaria vaccine has proved to be 77% effective in early trials so far, reaching the World Health Organization’s goal of at least 75% efficacy.