In a landmark initiative to combat malaria in Nigeria, the Federal Government has enlisted the support of three of the nation’s most influential business leaders. Aliko Dangote, Chairman of Dangote Group; Tony Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings; and Femi Otedola, Chairman of Geregu Power Plc, are set to spearhead the government’s ambitious malaria eradication drive.
A New Era in the Battle Against Malaria
The announcement was made by Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, during the inauguration of the Nigeria End Malaria Council on Friday in Abuja. This strategic move reflects the gravity of the malaria crisis in Nigeria, a country that bears a significant portion of the global malaria burden.
Dr. Alausa highlighted the urgency of addressing malaria, a disease that remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria. The Minister emphasized that the establishment of the council is a critical step towards leveraging every available resource to combat this persistent threat. The council aims to mobilize resources, especially from the private sector, to close the gaps in the national malaria strategic plan.
The Role of Business Leaders in Public Health
Aliko Dangote, Tony Elumelu, and Femi Otedola bring not only their substantial financial resources but also their vast networks and influence to this cause. Their involvement is expected to galvanize support across various sectors, including government, civil society, and the private sector.
Dangote, a longstanding advocate for health initiatives, previously served as Nigeria’s Malaria Ambassador and is a member of the Global End Malaria Council. His leadership is anticipated to drive significant progress in the fight against malaria. Elumelu and Otedola, known for their philanthropic efforts and commitment to social causes, are also poised to make substantial contributions.
Addressing the Malaria Crisis
Malaria continues to ravage Nigeria, contributing to over a quarter of global malaria cases and approximately a third of the more than 600,000 malaria-related deaths worldwide. The disease disproportionately affects children and pregnant women, with significant impacts on school attendance, workplace productivity, and household finances.
Dr. Alausa’s remarks underscored the dire situation: malaria contributes to 25 to 30 percent of childhood mortality and accounts for about 60 percent of hospital visits in Nigeria. The disease also leads to substantial absenteeism in schools and markets, compounding the economic burden on families.
The Path Forward: Strategic Goals and Challenges
The Nigeria End Malaria Council, originally established on August 16, 2017, by former President Muhammadu Buhari, has a mandate to keep malaria high on the national and state agendas. The council’s objectives include securing strong political commitment from leaders and mobilizing resources to support malaria eradication efforts.
Despite its initial goals, the council has faced challenges in recent years, including disruptions caused by changes in government and operational hurdles. Nevertheless, the council’s Secretariat has remained functional, ensuring that efforts to combat malaria continue.
The Importance of Private Sector Involvement
Dr. Alausa acknowledged that while existing interventions like antimalarial medicines, treated nets, and insecticides are crucial, they have not been sufficient to eradicate malaria. Much of the support for these interventions has come from donors, a model that is neither adequate nor sustainable.
The involvement of Dangote, Elumelu, and Otedola represents a significant shift towards harnessing private sector resources and expertise to address this pressing issue. Their leadership is expected to bring renewed focus and momentum to the malaria eradication campaign.
Council’s Inaugural Meeting and Future Plans
At the council’s inaugural meeting, Dangote emphasized the collective strength of its members, drawn from government, civil society, religion, and business. He highlighted the council’s unique ability to mobilize resources and ensure that malaria elimination remains a top priority on Nigeria’s agenda.
Dangote stressed the need for strong political commitment and advocacy at both national and state levels to secure the necessary funding and support. He also called on the council to protect and sustain progress, ensuring that Nigeria is on a path to ending malaria for good.
A Collective Effort Towards a Malaria-Free Nigeria
The formation of the Nigeria End Malaria Council and the involvement of prominent business leaders mark a new chapter in Nigeria’s fight against malaria. This initiative underscores the importance of a collaborative approach, bringing together government, private sector, and civil society to address one of the country’s most challenging public health issues.
As the council embarks on this critical mission, there is a renewed sense of hope and determination to combat malaria and improve public health outcomes. The collective efforts of Dangote, Elumelu, Otedola, and other stakeholders are set to play a pivotal role in achieving a malaria-free Nigeria.
Conclusion
The battle against malaria in Nigeria is far from over, but the establishment of the Nigeria End Malaria Council and the leadership of influential business figures offer a promising path forward. By leveraging their resources, expertise, and networks, Dangote, Elumelu, and Otedola are poised to drive meaningful progress in the fight against this devastating disease.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with the impacts of malaria, the council’s efforts will be crucial in mobilizing support, implementing effective strategies, and ultimately achieving the goal of a malaria-free future for the country.
