On the occasion of the 2023 World Mosquito Day, Nigeria’s participation in the global event has prompted Amobi Ogah, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, to urge the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on malaria. Ogah, who represents the Isuiwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State, emphasized that malaria, a deadly parasite carried by mosquitoes, has the potential to cause immense suffering among citizens.
In a statement issued in Abuja, following the commemoration of World Mosquito Day, Ogah noted that this global event takes place every August 20, with the 2023 theme being “Fighting the World’s Deadliest killer – the Mosquito.” The objective is to raise awareness about malaria’s causes, preventive measures, and the dangers posed by mosquitoes and the diseases they transmit.
He underscored the critical need to focus on eradicating the deadliest killer mosquitoes due to the immense threat posed by malaria. Ogah stated, “The House Committee on HIV, AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria Control is not unmindful of the challenges being faced by Nigerians in the fight against these ailments, especially in the fight against the control of Malaria in the country which appears to defy solutions.”
Ogah highlighted that Nigeria faces a significant burden from malaria, accounting for a substantial portion of global malaria deaths. He said, “Nigeria is a country in need of protection from malaria. Its death toll from the disease makes up nearly a third of the world’s 619,000 malaria deaths a year.”
The legislator urged governmental efforts at all levels to intensify measures to eliminate malaria-carrying mosquitoes. He expressed concern that the government wasn’t paying sufficient attention to the vectors directly affecting citizens’ lives and habitats, stressing the necessity to prioritize mosquito eradication.
Ogah highlighted that four African countries, including Nigeria, account for over half of global malaria-related deaths. He pledged that the 10th House of Representatives would ensure effective implementation of legislation aimed at eradicating malaria within the country.
Furthermore, he reiterated the committee’s commitment to combating the prevalence of counterfeit malaria medicines, which pose a significant threat to public health. Addressing this menace is pivotal to prevent further loss of life, he emphasized.
