Rolling back malaria in Nigeria

The latest call by world leaders during the 2024 UN General Assembly for increased funding to combat malaria is both timely and critical. This warning shines a light on SDG 3: “Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages,” which specifically targets the reduction of malaria, among other diseases. For Nigeria, where malaria accounts for 27% of global cases and deaths, this warning should serve as a wake-up call, urging the government and society to re-evaluate the current approach to fighting malaria and push towards sustainable, long-term solutions.

One of the primary concerns raised by world leaders is the potential for a worsening malaria crisis due to inadequate funding. Even with existing interventions such as insecticide-treated bed nets, antimalarial drugs, and the recently developed vaccine, the funding gap could result in an additional 112 million malaria cases and nearly 281,000 additional deaths over the next three years. The modeling underscores that current efforts may not be sufficient to prevent a major health disaster unless governments and international bodies commit to sustained, and even increased, funding.

For Nigeria, this is an especially urgent issue. Despite decades of campaigns to reduce the prevalence of malaria, the country remains the epicenter of the disease, recording an estimated 100 million cases annually and over 200,000 deaths. While these figures are staggering, it is equally concerning that the country has become somewhat complacent in its fight against malaria. The availability of antimalarial drugs and medications in every corner has created an illusion of control, making it easy for both the government and citizens to relax their vigilance. This should not be the case, especially when sustainability—the central theme of the SDGs—frowns upon short-term, reactionary solutions to systemic problems.

The SDGs emphasize long-term, holistic strategies that address the root causes of problems while fostering resilience and preventing future crises. In the case of malaria, sustainability demands more than just the availability of medication. It requires comprehensive, multi-sectoral approaches that include strengthening healthcare systems, ensuring environmental sustainability, and promoting education and awareness. While it is true that antimalarial drugs can reduce deaths, this approach only treats the symptoms of a larger, more complex issue. The true battle lies in prevention—attacking the root cause of malaria transmission by eliminating mosquito breeding sites, improving sanitation, and ensuring access to insecticide-treated nets for all.

Furthermore, the SDGs call for partnerships and collective action. The government, international organizations, communities, and individuals must all play their part. In Nigeria, there is a pressing need for greater community involvement. Local communities can be empowered to play a significant role in preventing malaria by monitoring mosquito breeding sites, educating families on prevention, and ensuring the proper use of mosquito nets. Similarly, local governments need to intensify their sanitation efforts, especially in densely populated areas where malaria transmission is highest. This would not only reduce malaria cases but also align with other SDGs, such as SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

The economic impact of malaria cannot be ignored either. Malaria costs Nigeria approximately $1 billion annually in healthcare expenses, lost income, and reduced productivity. Addressing the disease would therefore not only save lives but also boost the economy—a direct contribution to SDG 8: “Decent Work and Economic Growth.”

CSR REPORTERS reminds governments at all levels that Nigeria cannot afford to take a relaxed approach to malaria control. While advancements in treatment and prevention offer hope, they are not a substitute for sustainable, long-term strategies that align with the SDGs. The recent warning from world leaders is a reminder that complacency is dangerous, and without increased funding and renewed commitment, the battle against malaria could backslide. Nigeria must wake up and take charge, not only to meet the targets of the SDGs but to safeguard its people and its future.