Kogi Records Major Drop In Malaria Prevalence — Commissioner

Kogi State has recorded a significant milestone in its health sector, with malaria prevalence dropping from 16 per cent in 2021 to 8.9 percent in 2025, according to the latest National Malaria Indicator Survey (NMIS).

The State Commissioner for Health, Abdulazeez Adams, disclosed the figures on Thursday, describing the development as a major improvement in the state’s public health efforts.

He said the decline has moved Kogi from the “Moderate A” malaria transmission category, previously defined by a prevalence range of 15 to 35 per cent, into the “Low A” category, signalling improved health outcomes across the state.

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The Commissioner attributed the achievement to the commitment and support of the Kogi state Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, as well as the dedication of health workers and stakeholders across the state.

He particularly commended the State Health Team and the Malaria Elimination Team, as well as the development partners, for their sustained efforts in reducing the burden of malaria.

“The progress reflects the government’s continued investment in healthcare delivery and its focus on improving the well-being of citizens,” Dr Adams said

While celebrating the milestone, the Commissioner emphasized that the state remains committed to further reducing malaria prevalence to less than one percent, reiterating that Governor Ododo remains committed to the well-being of the Kogi people.

Major Public Health Concern

Malaria remains a major public health concern in Nigeria, which accounts for a significant share of global cases and deaths.

The World Health Organization (WHO) consistently ranks Nigeria as the country with the highest malaria burden worldwide. In its latest World Malaria Report, WHO estimates that Nigeria contributes roughly a quarter of global malaria cases and deaths, making it the epicentre of the disease.

Similarly, the UNICEF notes that malaria is a leading cause of illness and death among children under five in Nigeria. The disease is responsible for a large proportion of outpatient visits and hospital admissions, placing heavy pressure on the country’s healthcare system.

Data from the National Malaria Indicator Survey (NMIS) show that prevalence rates vary widely across states, with some regions recording significantly higher infection rates than others. This variation is often linked to differences in access to interventions such as insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), indoor residual spraying, and effective treatment.

Over the years, Nigeria has recorded gradual progress in malaria control through a range of interventions, including the distribution of insecticide-treated mosquito nets, improved diagnostic testing, public health awareness campaigns, and expanded access to effective antimalarial medicines.

Ongoing initiatives by state governments, in collaboration with federal health authorities and international partners, are part of Nigeria’s broader malaria elimination strategy aimed at significantly reducing infection rates and ultimately achieving near-zero prevalence in line with global health targets.