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The Federal Government has called on state governments to step up their financial contribution towards malaria control efforts. Mr Olufunso Adebiyi, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health, made this appeal during a visit by the Insecticide Treated Mosquito Net Campaign Team to Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State in Osogbo on Tuesday.

Adebiyi emphasized that Osun State would need to provide 15% of the total annual global fund support, which amounts to N261 million, in order to continue benefiting from the global fund grants. He further revealed that from 2014 alone, there have been approximately 1.4 million reported cases of malaria in Osun State. However, between 2009 and 2021, an estimated 4.2 million cases of malaria have been successfully avoided.

Addressing the governor, Adebiyi urged him to ensure that residents of the state receive and utilize the insecticide-treated nets to prevent the spread of malaria. He highlighted the significant progress made in the fight against malaria, attributing it to the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including the global funds. Adebiyi noted that, nationally, approximately 50 million cases of malaria have been avoided since 2009.

Regarding Osun State, he stated, “An estimated 4.2 million cases of malaria have been avoided between 2009 and 2021. This is undoubtedly a cause for celebration. However, we still require your support. We are requesting a co-financing arrangement from the state government, which would amount to 15% of the total grant money, including the cost of these activities. This co-financing totals about N788 million over three years, equivalent to N261 million annually.”

In response, Governor Adeleke assured the campaign team of his full support for the distribution of the insecticide-treated nets, emphasizing that the state would also provide additional assistance wherever needed. He praised Osun State’s track record in malaria advocacy and net distribution, asserting his commitment to ensuring that residents receive and use the insecticide nets effectively. The governor believes that this initiative will further contribute to a substantial reduction in the malaria burden within the state.

Efforts to combat malaria require collaborative efforts among all levels of government, as well as the dedication and engagement of the general public. With continued support and funding, it is hoped that Nigeria can make substantial progress in reducing the impact of malaria and improving the health and well-being of its citizens.