The federal government is seeking collaborative actions to eliminate malaria in Nigeria.

Senior Government Officials at a training programme, were urged to take decisive actions in tackling malaria, as Nigeria continues to bear the highest burden of the disease globally.

At the launch of the Training of Senior Government Officials on Driving Systemic Change Against Malaria Through Insight in Abuja, organised by the Malaria Consortium Nigeria, stakeholders said the programme is designed to equip high-level health officials with the knowledge to implement effective malaria interventions in the various states.

They explained that the training focuses on key interventions, including seasonal malaria chemoprevention, distribution of insecticide-treated nets, intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy, prompt diagnosis and treatment, surveillance, supply chain management, and advocacy.

Stakeholders noted that commissioners of health, executive secretaries of State Primary Health Care Development Agencies, and directors in health ministries are critical gatekeepers responsible for driving policy and mobilising resources.

Officials emphasised that although malaria prevalence has dropped from 42 per cent in 2010 to about 15 per cent, based on recent Malaria Indicator Surveys, Nigeria still records high absolute numbers due to its large population.

They emphasised that while malaria can be eliminated through coordinated efforts, led by the National Malaria Elimination Programme and partners, eliminating mosquitoes entirely is neither practical nor necessary, adding that the focus remains on stopping transmission of the parasite.

Participants at the orientation include health leaders from Borno, Adamawa, Kebbi, Yobe, Nasarawa states and the FCT. The organizers expressed confidence that improved data-driven decisions and better use of limited resources will further reduce malaria cases across the country.