LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- Kogi State has made impressive strides in fighting malaria, cutting the disease’s cases nearly in half over four years, moving from moderate to low transmission.
The latest data from the National Malaria Indicator Survey reported that the spread dropped from 16 percent in 2021 to 8.9 percent in 2025, marking a milestone in public health progress.
The National Malaria Indicator Survey, conducted by the National Malaria Elimination Programme, National Population Commission, and National Bureau of Statistics with international support, tracks malaria prevalence, intervention coverage, and public awareness. Its findings help policymakers design targeted measures to fight the disease.
According to the State Commissioner for Health, Dr Abdulazeez Adams, the report indicates that the state has moved from the “Moderate A” malaria transmission category to “Low A.” He noted that the shift reflects major improvements in public health outcomes.
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Adams credited the success to the strong commitment of the state government and the dedication of health workers and stakeholders across Kogi.
“The progress reflects the government’s continued investment in healthcare delivery and its focus on improving the well-being of citizens,” he said on Thursday.
The commissioner praised the State Health Team, the Malaria Elimination Team, and development partners for their ongoing efforts to reduce the burden of the disease. With the continued support of Governor Ahmed Ododo, who is invested in health initiatives to improve health across Kogi, Adam’s maintained that the state remains determined to lower malaria prevalence to less than one percent.
Malaria continues to be a major health challenge in Nigeria, causing significant illness and death, particularly among children under five and pregnant women, according to national health authorities and the World Health Organization (WHO). The country carries one of the highest malaria burdens globally, making consistent prevention and control a national priority.
Over the years, Nigeria has steadily reduced malaria through measures such as distributing insecticide-treated mosquito nets, improving diagnostic testing, offering preventive treatment to pregnant women, running public health campaigns, and expanding access to effective antimalarial medicines.
Public health experts say Kogi’s drop in malaria reflects better vector control, wider healthcare access, and coordinated action between government agencies and development partners. While malaria remains endemic in parts of the country, sustained investments and strategic interventions continue to drive progress toward elimination.
Notably, Kogi State’s achievement demonstrates how focused government policies, combined with committed health teams and partners, can create lasting improvements in public health.
