Kebbi, Zamfara, and Sokoto Lead in Malaria Prevalence, says NMEP

• According to the National Malaria Elimination Programme, Kebbi, Zamfara, and Sokoto states report the highest malaria prevalence rates in Nigeria
• Dr. Godwin Ntadom, NMEP’s national coordinator, highlighted Lagos and Kwara states as having the lowest malaria prevalence rates

According to the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP), Kebbi, Zamfara, and Sokoto states have Nigeria’s highest malaria prevalence rates.

Dr. Godwin Ntadom, the national coordinator of NMEP, made this announcement during a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday.

He noted that Lagos and Kwara states have the lowest malaria prevalence rates in the country.

Dr. Ntadom highlighted a reduction in malaria cases and deaths in Nigeria, citing a decrease from 27 percent in 2015 to 22 percent in 2021. He anticipated further reduction in 2024 due to ongoing efforts to combat the disease.

The coordinator outlined various strategies employed by NMEP, including the distribution of anti-malaria medication and insecticide-treated mosquito nets. He also mentioned the implementation of seasonal malaria chemopreventive treatment, particularly in regions with high malaria prevalence, contributing to decreased mortality rates.

In addition to distributing nets and ensuring adequate treatment for children and pregnant women nationwide, Dr. Ntadom emphasized the importance of these interventions.

He revealed that out of the 608,000 global malaria-related deaths recorded in 2022, 30 percent were Nigerians.

Furthermore, Dr Ntadom disclosed plans to introduce malaria vaccines in Nigeria, starting with Kebbi and Bayelsa states, before expanding to other regions later in the year.