The prevalence of malaria burden in Delta State has declined from 10 percent in 2022 to 6.5 percent in 2025.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, who disclosed this during the 2026 World Malaria Day commemoration in the state, said treated mosquito nets are now widely available in homes across the state, while health centres and hospitals have been equipped with Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) kits and essential malaria prevention materials for children under age five and pregnant women.
Onojaeme said the global theme of the commemoration, ‘End malaria: Now we can, Now We Must’, conveyed both urgency and hope, stressing that while remarkable progress had been recorded, sustained and decisive action remained necessary to completely eradicate malaria.
He hinted that the government had earlier contributed over N50 million in counterpart funding toward the 2025 Insecticide-Treated Nets campaign, adding that the anticipated deployment of malaria vaccines across Africa, including Nigeria, will further strengthen the fight against the disease.
Reaffirming that malaria elimination is now within reach, the commissioner called on residents, health workers and stakeholders to intensify collective efforts towards ending the disease across the state.
He commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his support, while also acknowledging development partners, research institutions, particularly Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DSUTH) as well as doctors, nurses, vector control teams and community health workers for their steadfast commitment.
He assured that the government will continue to prioritise primary healthcare funding, uninterrupted malaria testing and treatment, and stronger environmental health interventions to eliminate mosquito breeding sites.
The commissioner charged health workers and educators to remain frontline champions by promoting the consistent use of insecticide-treated nets, upholding the principle of ‘test before treatment,’ and ensuring patients complete prescribed medication.
He urged the residents to maintain clean surroundings, eliminate stagnant water, clear overgrown vegetation, and seek prompt medical attention within 24 hours of fever onset.
He warned against self-medication and the use of leftover drugs, stressing that proper diagnosis and treatment remain critical to defeating malaria.
The event was marked by awareness walk led by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. (Mrs) Uche Okwe, alongside ministry officials, health workers, development partners and other stakeholders, reflecting a united commitment to public health advocacy and malaria prevention.