Abuja Fights Malaria with Free Test Kits and Medicines
Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, Secretary of Health Services, FCT Administration, launched a malaria program in Abuja on Tuesday. The program provides free malaria drugs and test kits.
She said Nigeria has 27% of global malaria cases, the highest in the world. The FCT makes up 5% of Nigeria’s malaria cases. Malaria mostly affects children under five and women.
“Malaria is caused by mosquitoes. If we eliminate mosquitoes, we can stop malaria,” she said. She praised the new roads built by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for improving healthcare access.
A 2024 WHO survey found that 1.4 million people in the FCT have malaria. With a population of about 5 to 6 million, malaria is a major concern.
Dr. Fasawe said the FCT Minister paid the required funds last year. This allowed the FCT to join the malaria control program. She warned that malaria kills a child every minute in Nigeria.
The two-year program will offer free tests and medicine. More will be bought if needed. She warned health workers not to sell or steal the supplies. Those caught will face punishment.
Dr. Abubakar Ahmadu, Acting Permanent Secretary, said the program will improve healthcare and reduce costs for people. He urged health workers to use the kits and medicines wisely.
Dr. Maureen Ugochuku from Famkris Healthcare Initiative said malaria is Nigeria’s biggest health problem. It also affects business and money. The Islamic Development Bank is helping fund the project.
