The Rivers State Ministry of Health has announced a notable reduction in malaria prevalence within the state, recording an 11% rate compared to the national average of 23%. This achievement places Rivers among the top five states in Nigeria in terms of malaria control and reduction.
This was disclosed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Mekele Igwe, during an event to mark World Malaria Day 2025, themed “Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite.”
Dr. Igwe emphasized the significance of this year’s theme, which focuses on sustaining gains made in malaria control through renewed investment, innovation, and political commitment.
“Today provides an opportunity for government, development partners, multinational organizations, local NGOs, and individuals to raise awareness about malaria and the threat it continues to pose,” she stated.
Malaria remains a major health challenge in Nigeria, accounting for 60% of outpatient visits, 30% of hospital admissions, and significant workplace absenteeism, particularly affecting children under five and pregnant women.
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Highlighting the state’s progress, Dr. Igwe noted that the Rivers State Government has scaled up various intervention strategies, including distribution of insecticide-treated nets, free testing using Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs), and preventive treatment for pregnant women through approved antenatal clinics.
“All fever is not malaria,” she warned, urging citizens to test before treatment and emphasizing that malaria rapid tests are now available at no cost.
“Pregnant women should also register for antenatal care in government-approved facilities and access free malaria preventive drugs.”
She called for active citizen participation in the state’s malaria elimination campaign, stressing the importance of collaboration across all sectors. “Individuals, private sector, civil society organizations, and the government must work together to sustain and improve on these gains.”
Dr. Igwe also extended appreciation to partners supporting the state’s anti-malaria efforts, including the World Bank, World Health Organization (WHO), ACOMIN, Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), media organizations, the Red Cross, community-based organizations (CBOs), and volunteers.
“As we commemorate World Malaria Day, I urge everyone to rise to the challenge of changing the narrative. Together, we can end malaria,” she concluded.
