Jane Okeke
The Africa Youth Growth Foundation (AYGF) has reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating malaria in Nigeria, declaring that grassroots action and stronger health systems are key to achieving zero malaria.
Speaking in Abuja, Executive Director Dr. Arome Salifu said Nigeria still carries a heavy malaria burden, accounting for over a quarter of global cases and nearly one-third of deaths.
He highlighted AYGF’s partnership with government and development partners as a driving force behind ongoing interventions aligned with national and global malaria strategies.
Central to the progress is the Support to Malaria Elimination Project in Edo State, now fully operational across all 18 Local Government Areas within just one year.
The project has significantly improved healthcare delivery, with nearly 300 health workers and over 190 community mobilizers trained in diagnosis, treatment, and data reporting.
Access to care has expanded rapidly, with malaria testing increasing by 64% and treated cases rising by 42%, while unverified clinical diagnoses continue to decline.
A major breakthrough was recorded in maternal health, as preventive malaria treatment for pregnant women more than doubled, protecting over 14,000 additional mothers and newborns.
AYGF also strengthened the health system through large-scale training, reaching over 1,700 personnel and improving logistics, monitoring, and accountability structures across the state.
Despite the gains, Dr. Salifu raised concern over persistent shortages of key commodities, including insecticide-treated nets and pediatric malaria drugs, warning that supply gaps threaten lives.
He called on government, partners, and the public to intensify efforts, stressing that malaria is preventable and treatable, and that achieving zero malaria in Nigeria is possible with sustained collective action.
