In a bid to drastically reduce the malaria burden in Lagos State, the Lagos State Ministry of Health has entered into a strategic partnership with the Society for Family Health (SFH). Supported by the World Bank, the collaboration focuses on extending malaria prevention and treatment efforts, particularly targeting vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and children under five.
The announcement was made in a statement, highlighting that the initiative is a key component of the broader Malaria Impact Project. It aligns with Nigeria’s National Malaria Strategic Plan, focusing on community engagement and expanding healthcare services, particularly in underserved areas of Lagos.
“This project is a critical step in reducing these numbers,” said Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, referencing the high prevalence of malaria in the state. “It aims to expand access to malaria prevention tools, such as insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), and improve diagnosis and treatment services across the state.”
The SFH, a leading organization in public health, will bolster malaria diagnosis and case management with modern tools like Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs). Dr. Omokhudu Idogho, Managing Director of SFH, emphasized, “This initiative brings us closer to a Malaria-Free Nigeria while strengthening healthcare systems to deliver equitable, high-quality malaria control services.”
The project aims to reach even the most remote communities in Lagos, with Dr. Jennifer Anyanti, SFH’s Deputy Managing Director, adding, “By working closely with local organizations and stakeholders, we ensure that essential messages about malaria prevention and treatment reach even the most remote communities.”
With over 97% of Nigeria’s population at risk, the partnership marks a critical effort to improve health outcomes for Lagos’ 20 million residents.
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