The Enugu State Government says it is strengthening its response to malaria through a range of targeted health interventions aimed at reducing infections across the state.
The Commissioner for Health, Prof. George Ugwu, made this known on Tuesday in Enugu during a briefing to mark World Malaria Day, organised by the state Ministry of Health in collaboration with development partners.
He explained that the government has introduced free malaria testing, treatment services, preventive tools, and expanded community outreach programmes to improve access to care and reduce the disease burden.
According to him, this year’s theme, “Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can. Now We Must,” reflects both the progress made and the urgency for sustained action.
Ugwu noted that modern tools, scientific advances, and proven strategies now make malaria elimination achievable, stressing the need for consistent implementation to avoid a rebound in cases.
He added that Governor Peter Mbah has prioritised malaria elimination, leading to the expansion of free testing and treatment services in more than 500 health facilities across the state.
The commissioner further stated that the ministry has ensured wider access to rapid diagnostic tests and effective first-line medications, while also integrating malaria care into primary healthcare services.
He revealed that this year’s activities also include enrolling 1,000 pregnant women into the state health insurance scheme, recognising frontline health workers for their efforts, and carrying out community sensitisation and outreach programmes.
Ugwu commended development partners such as ECEWS, Shpiego, the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and media organisations for their continued support in malaria control efforts.
Also speaking, the Programme Coordinator of the State Malaria Elimination Programme, Dr Ifeoma Otiji, urged stronger collaboration among stakeholders to sustain progress towards eliminating malaria.
She encouraged residents to make use of ongoing free testing and treatment services, noting that not all fever cases are caused by malaria.
Otiji also advised the public to consistently use insecticide-treated mosquito nets, carry out indoor spraying where possible, eliminate stagnant water, and seek prompt diagnosis and complete treatment when necessary.
She stressed that collective action remains essential in achieving a malaria-free state.