FCT Health Secretary Highlights Malaria Threat, Unveils Eradication Efforts
The FCT Mandate Secretary for Health Services and the Environment Secretariat, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, has emphasized the ongoing threat of malaria, particularly to children under five and women.
“Malaria is caused by just one thing—the mosquito. If we eliminate mosquitoes, we eliminate malaria,” she stated. She also acknowledged the role of improved infrastructure, highlighting how the network of roads developed by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has enhanced access to communities during emergencies.
Dr. Fasawe noted that Nigeria has the highest malaria prevalence globally. According to a 2024 World Health Organization survey, 1.4 million residents of the FCT suffer from the disease.
“The fight against malaria is a fight for life. Every five minutes, a child dies from malaria in Nigeria. Our goal is to eradicate malaria in the FCT and across the nation,” she said.
To combat the disease, the administration is providing free malaria test kits and treatments. A 2024 survey revealed that 60% of children presenting at FCT health facilities showed clear signs of malaria. Dr. Fasawe assured the public that all healthcare centers in the FCT would receive free health kits and medications, warning that any facility found selling these resources would face strict penalties.
Additionally, insecticide-treated nets will be distributed to pregnant women and nursing mothers. She stressed that malaria is preventable and that effective treatment significantly reduces its incidence. The administration’s two-year programme will ensure a steady supply of essential drugs through timely procurement.
Earlier, the Acting Permanent Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Abubakar Ahmadi, emphasized that the initiative aims to improve healthcare access and alleviate the financial burden on households.
