Society for Family Health urges urgent scale-up of malaria prevention and treatment amid high disease burden
The Society for Family Health (SFH), in collaboration with government and development partners, has issued a stark warning about Nigeria’s persistent malaria crisis, emphasizing the urgent need for expanded vaccination, chemoprevention, and stronger community engagement.
Malaria Remains a Major Health Burden
Nigeria accounts for 27% of global malaria cases and 31% of malaria deaths, according to the 2024 World Malaria Report. Children under five and pregnant women are among the most affected. Despite progress, national coverage gaps and rising insecticide resistance threaten past gains.
SFH Scales Up Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention
In the 2024 SMC campaign implemented in Adamawa State, SFH reached over 1.1 million children aged 3–59 months with preventive medication (SPAQ), achieving a 90% retention rate. The initiative significantly reduced malaria incidence among vulnerable communities.
Rapid Vaccine Rollout in High-Burden States
Nigeria has launched the WHO-approved R21/Matrix‑M malaria vaccine, starting in Bayelsa and Kebbi states. Early rollout data indicate up to 75% effectiveness in preventing severe disease in children aged five to 23 months. Plans are underway to expand vaccination to 17 additional states in 2025.
Public-Private Partnership Targets Lagos Pre-Elimination
Through a key partnership with Lagos State government, SFH is implementing the Malaria Impact Project under a World Bank-supported framework. The initiative enhances prevention and treatment services in public and private facilities, improving diagnosis, case management, and community outreach.
Government Commits to Malaria-Free Nigeria by 2030
In line with the National Malaria Strategic Plan (2021–2025), the Federal Government aims to reach 30 million at-risk children with intervention measures in 2025. These include insecticide-treated net distribution, Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention in 21 eligible states, larval source management pilots in six states, and scaling up vaccine access.
Community Resilience: A Critical Success Factor
SFH continues to prioritize community engagement, behavior change communication, and training of community health workers. Local leadership and stakeholders are mobilized to increase ITN use and encourage early testing and treatment.
Urgent Issues Still Unresolved
Challenges such as drug misuse, diagnostic gaps, and vaccine hesitancy remain significant. Experts warn that unless tested cases receive ACT treatment and monitoring strengthens, progress toward elimination will stall.
