Onyebuchi Ezigbo and Folalumi Alaran in Abuja
The Civil Society in Malaria Control, Immunization and Nutrition in Nigeria (ACOMIN) yesterday asked the federal government to allocate more resources towards strengthening of primary healthcare centres so as to help the fight against malaria.
The National Coordinator of ACOMIN, Ayo Ipinmoye made the call during a quarterly media briefing in Abuja, saying the crucial role of primary healthcare centres in combating this life-threatening disease such as malaria cannot be overemphasized.
Ipinmoye observed that statistics from 2021 revealed that Nigeria had the highest number of global malaria cases, accounting for 26.6 percent of cases.
He added that the country experienced the highest number of malaria-related deaths, constituting 31percent of global malaria deaths.
Within West Africa, according to the national coordinator, Nigeria alone accounted for an estimated 54 percent of malaria cases.
To address this alarming situation, Ipinmoye said there was need for urgent collective efforts from the public to tackle the malaria scourge.
He stressed the importance of insecticide-treated nets as physical barriers against mosquitoes, reducing the risk of infection for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and young children.
He said that a major way of eliminating malaria is by removing potential breeding sites, such as stagnant water collected in discarded items like plastic bottles and old tires, requires proper waste management and maintenance of drainage systems.
“Prompt diagnosis and treatment are also vital in reducing the impact of malaria. Individuals experiencing symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, and body aches are urged to seek immediate medical attention for testing and appropriate treatment,” he said.
While discussing the steps to eliminate malaria, ACOMIN drew attention “to the often-overlooked role of PHCs. These community-based healthcare facilities are the first point of contact for individuals seeking healthcare assistance.
“PHCs provide essential services including preventive care, diagnosis, treatment of common illnesses, maternal and child health services, family planning, chronic disease management, and health education.
“Particularly in remote or underserved areas, PHCs play a critical role in providing access to quality healthcare and reducing the burden on secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities.
“ACOMIN strongly urge the Nigerian government and institutions to invest in and support the efficiency and effectiveness of the PHCs. By providing necessary facilities, equipment, medicines, and trained healthcare professionals, PHCs can conduct tests for malaria and provide timely and affordable treatment.
“Furthermore, these PHCs can contribute to the surveillance and monitoring of malaria cases, generating valuable information for data-driven public health interventions and resource allocation.
ACOMIN urged the governments at all levels to increase funding for PHCs to strengthen primary healthcare infrastructure and enhance the capacity of healthcare workers.
The organisation also said that private organizations, philanthropic foundations, and individuals were called upon to contribute to the funding of PHCs, thus expanding their reach and impact.
ACOMIN said community members are encouraged to actively support and advocate for their local PHCs through engagement, volunteering, donation, and participation in advocacy efforts.
