The Federal Government has set a target to cut malaria prevalence and malaria-related deaths by 50 per cent from 2025 levels by 2030, following a decline in parasite prevalence among children aged 6–59 months to 15.2 per cent in 2025.
The target was announced at the launch of the 2025 Nigeria Malaria Indicator Survey (NMIS) Report and the National Malaria Strategic Plan 2026–2030 in Abuja on Thursday.
According to a statement issued by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Coordinating Minister, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, represented by Permanent Secretary Daju Kachollom S., said prevalence had fallen from 22 per cent in 2021, reflecting progress in malaria control.
He cited Kebbi State, where prevalence dropped from 49 per cent to 18 per cent over the same period, but warned that the gains did not signify elimination.
Pate noted that 72.3 per cent of children and 80.6 per cent of pregnant women in households owning insecticide-treated nets slept under them, highlighting the need for consistent use.
The 2026–2030 plan aligns with the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative and its Sector-Wide Approach, using sub-national tailoring to direct interventions to high-burden areas.
National Population Commission Director-General Abuh Muhammed urged policymakers and partners to use the survey findings to guide resource allocation, reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to evidence-based planning.
Pate also urged states to align budgets with local needs and release funds promptly, while calling on development partners to support national priorities. The government pledged stronger domestic financing, surveillance and accountability.
