Dangote, Otedola, Elumelu to lead ‘Nigeria End Malaria’ campaign

Dangote, Otedola, Elumelu to lead ‘Nigeria End Malaria’ campaign

The President Bola Tinubu-led Nigerian government has enlisted the support of top business magnates to lead the charge against malaria.

The initiative brings together Aliko Dangote, Chairman of the Dangote Group, Tony Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings, and Femi Otedola, Chairman of Geregu Power Plc, in a collaborative effort aimed at eradicating malaria in Nigeria.

The Nigeria End Malaria Council, inaugurated by Dr. Tunji Alausa, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, was reactivated in Abuja on Friday.

This council, initially established on August 16, 2017, by former President Muhammadu Buhari, has been tasked with keeping malaria eradication a top priority across the country and mobilizing necessary resources, particularly from the private sector.

Dr. Alausa highlighted the critical need to address malaria, which remains a major health challenge in Nigeria. He pointed out that the country accounts for over 25% of global malaria cases and about a third of malaria-related deaths, primarily affecting children and pregnant women. The disease also contributes significantly to childhood mortality, hospital visits, and absenteeism in schools and workplaces.

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Despite existing interventions like antimalarial drugs and insecticide-treated nets, the minister noted that these measures alone are insufficient. He emphasized the need for a sustainable approach that goes beyond donor support, which has so far been the primary source of funding for malaria control in Nigeria.

Aliko Dangote, who has been appointed to lead the council, expressed his commitment to the cause, urging members to leverage their collective influence to secure political commitment and adequate funding at both national and state levels.

He stressed the importance of keeping malaria eradication high on Nigeria’s agenda and ensuring that progress made so far is sustained.

The council’s renewed mandate includes mobilizing resources to bridge the funding gaps in Nigeria’s malaria strategic plan. As part of this effort, the council will work closely with the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, National Assembly joint Health Committees, and various women’s organizations.

As Nigeria’s population continues to grow, with over 200 million people at risk of malaria, the council’s work is more critical than ever. The government’s commitment to this cause was further underscored by the formal handover of the Nigeria End Malaria Council Secretariat to the newly inaugurated council, signaling a renewed determination to make malaria history in the country.

The council members are now charged with the responsibility of driving the nation towards a malaria-free future, a goal that will significantly improve the quality of life for all Nigerians.

Dangote, Otedola, Elumelu to lead ‘Nigeria End Malaria’ campaign