Nigeria’s House of Representatives Urges Government to Declare Malaria State of Emergency on World Mosquito Day

Amid the global observance of World Mosquito Day, Nigeria’s Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, Amobi Ogah, has called upon the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency regarding malaria. Ogah, representing the Isuiwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State, emphasized the urgency of this action, labelling malaria as a perilous scourge capable of inflicting substantial suffering on the populace.

In a statement issued yesterday in Abuja to commemorate the 2023 World Mosquito Day, Ogah highlighted the international theme for this year, “Fighting the World’s Deadliest killer – the Mosquito.” This theme serves to raise awareness about the causes of malaria, preventative measures, and the hazards associated with mosquitoes and mosquito-borne diseases. The objective is to underscore the ongoing global initiatives aimed at combating this lethal threat.

Ogah asserted that due to the considerable threat posed by malaria, all possible measures should be taken to eliminate the disease and its primary carriers, the deadliest of mosquitoes.

“The House Committee on HIV, AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria Control is acutely aware of the challenges that Nigerians face in their fight against these ailments, particularly in the battle against malaria control, which seems to resist solutions. The committee will collaborate with relevant stakeholders to ensure that allocated funds are utilized for their intended purposes,” Ogah stated.

Citing statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO), Ogah pointed out that four African countries, including Nigeria, contribute to over 50% of global malaria deaths. Nigeria stands atop this list with a 31.3% share, followed by the Democratic Republic of the Congo with 12.6%, Tanzania with 4.1%, and Niger with 3.9%.

Ogah urged governmental authorities at all levels to intensify efforts to eradicate the menace of malaria and the mosquitoes transmitting it from the country. He lamented the lack of adequate attention towards the vector that directly impacts the nation’s habitat and way of life, stressing the need to prioritize mosquito eradication.

Ogah reiterated that the 10th House of Representatives is committed to ensuring the thorough implementation of legislation designed to combat malaria within Nigeria. He also highlighted the committee’s determination to address the prevalence of counterfeit malaria medicines, aiming to mitigate further deaths stemming from this issue.