Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called for urgent action and renewed commitment from all stakeholders to eradicate malaria in the country, describing it as a pressing national emergency.
Her remarks came in a statement marking World Malaria Day 2025, highlighting the need for joint efforts, increased public awareness, and greater investments in life-saving interventions to combat the disease. The theme for this year’s observance is: “Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite.”
In her statement, Senator Tinubu emphasized that malaria is not just a public health issue but a critical national crisis that requires immediate and sustained action. “Malaria is not just a public health challenge—it is a national emergency,” she said. “We must renew our commitment to fighting this disease through action, investment, and personal responsibility.”
She urged Nigerians to take responsibility for their environments by maintaining clean surroundings and avoiding stagnant water, which serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Tinubu’s advocacy comes at a time when malaria continues to exact a heavy toll on both Nigeria and the African continent.
The World Health Organization, WHO, reports that malaria remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in sub-Saharan Africa, with Nigeria being one of the most affected countries. In 2021, the country recorded over 200 million cases of malaria, and over 50,000 deaths—accounting for nearly 30% of the global malaria burden.
Children under five and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to the disease, which is transmitted through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.
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In Africa, malaria is a major contributor to poverty, placing a significant strain on healthcare systems, economies, and families.
WHO states that, malaria costs the continent an estimated $12 billion annually in lost productivity, healthcare expenses, and other related costs. This persistent challenge has prompted calls from global health organizations for stronger, coordinated efforts to eliminate the disease by 2030.
Senator Tinubu’s call for collective action emphasizes the need for collaboration among government agencies, non-governmental organizations, health professionals, and community leaders. She stressed that effective malaria control requires everyone’s involvement.
“Malaria ends with us—our voices, choices, and actions,” she said, urging Nigerians to not only take personal responsibility but to also support government-led initiatives aimed at reducing malaria transmission through the distribution of insecticide-treated nets, the use of indoor spraying, and access to antimalarial drugs.
As Nigeria marks World Malaria Day, the First Lady’s message serves as a reminder of the country’s commitment to fighting malaria and its role in achieving the global goal of a malaria-free world. With increased investments, better prevention measures, and stronger community engagement, Nigeria can make significant progress in eliminating this disease that continues to affect millions of its citizens.
NAN
