Prof Dennis Aribodor
By Chinedum Treasure
A public health expert, Prof. Dennis Aribodor, has urged governments at all levels in Nigeria to intensify efforts toward malaria elimination.
In a statement marking World Malaria Day 2026, themed “Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can. Now We Must,” Aribodor stressed that tackling the disease requires strong political will, adequate funding, and sustained community action.
He noted that Nigeria bears about 27 percent of global malaria cases and deaths, citing the World Health Organization 2025 report, which recorded over 280 million cases and more than 600,000 deaths worldwide.
According to him, children under five and pregnant women remain the most vulnerable, with malaria contributing to poverty, school absenteeism, and preventable deaths.
Aribodor, however, maintained that malaria is preventable and treatable, pointing out that several countries have achieved elimination status. He urged Nigeria to emulate nations already certified malaria-free through sustained commitment and effective deployment of control measures.
He called for increased funding, timely release of resources, and coordinated interventions to accelerate progress toward a malaria-free Nigeria.
Tags:
Malaria, World Malaria Day 2026, Nigeria health, Dennis Aribodor, malaria elimination, public health, WHO report, disease prevention, health policy, Africa health, mosquito control, funding, political will
