From Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Kogi State Government says it is intensifying efforts to eliminate malaria after recording a decline in prevalence across the state.Commissioner for Health, Dr Abdulazees Adeiza, disclosed this during a media briefing organised by Famkris Healthcare Initiative in collaboration with the Kogi Malaria Elimination Programme to mark World Malaria Day.
He said malaria prevalence in the state dropped from 16 per cent in 2021 to 8.9 per cent in 2025, attributing the progress to sustained interventions and partnerships. Adeiza described malaria as a major public health concern, particularly for children under five and pregnant women, but noted that the state is strengthening strategies to further reduce infections.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Maji Enok, the commissioner said the government remains committed to supporting malaria control programmes across the three senatorial districts, including providing counterpart funding to donor-supported initiatives. He also commended the media for raising awareness on prevention and treatment.
Director of the Malaria Elimination Programme, Dr Stephen Ake, said free testing, treatment and distribution of malaria commodities are ongoing in all 239 wards in the state.State Team Lead of Famkris Healthcare Initiative, Dr Salamatu Yahaya, said the programme covers both urban and rural communities and urged residents to take advantage of the services. Officials said continued collaboration and public participation are key to achieving malaria elimination in the state.
