Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has launched the ‘Pathway to Malaria Pre-Elimination and Digitisation Program’ in Lagos, as part of efforts to eradicate malaria in the state.
The governor emphasized the importance of accurate diagnosis and a “test-before-treatment” approach, urging residents to discontinue getting treated for malaria without testing.
Sanwo-Olu noted that not all fevers are malaria-related, and stressed the need for residents to adopt preventive measures such as eliminating mosquito breeding sites.
The governor also highlighted the socioeconomic burden malaria imposes on Lagosians, hindering productivity, draining household incomes, and disrupting educational pursuits.
He noted that eradicating malaria is not only a health imperative but also an economic necessity that could significantly boost the state’s GDP.
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, commended the program, highlighting its focus on integrating digital health solutions for real-time electronic reporting to improve malaria diagnosis and case management.
Lagos State has consistently recorded the lowest malaria prevalence in Nigeria, with a 2.6% prevalence rate.
The Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, stated that achieving malaria pre-elimination requires continued efforts in early diagnosis, effective treatment, and vector control measures.
Abayomi noted that the state has made significant progress in reducing malaria prevalence, but more needs to be done to achieve pre-elimination status.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) Country Representative, Dr. Kazadi Mulombo, praised Lagos for its leadership in malaria control, serving as a model for urban malaria control and addressing both low transmission areas and malaria hotspots.
Mulombo emphasized the importance of collaboration and coordination among stakeholders to achieve malaria elimination.
The ‘Pathway to Malaria Pre-Elimination and Digitisation Program’ is a comprehensive initiative aimed at reducing malaria prevalence in Lagos State through improved diagnosis, treatment, and prevention measures.
The program is expected to enhance the state’s capacity to respond to malaria outbreaks and improve health outcomes for residents.
