2025 THE BIG PUSH ON MALARIA; HEALTH MINISTER URGES AFRICA TO LEAD IN THE FIGHT. (PHOTO).

 2025 The Big Push On  Malaria; Health Minister Urges Africa To Lead In The Fight

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, says Africans must “leave the idea that it is someone else’s problem” and take ownership of the fight against malaria. Speaking at the 2025 The Big Push on Malaria Meeting Abuja -Nigeria, with the theme “Harnessing Africa’s Role in the Big Push Against Malaria,” Prof. Pate stressed that 90 percent of the global malaria burden is on the continent and urged African nations to lead efforts to end the disease.

Prof. Pate explained that while support from development partners such as the UK, the US, the Global Fund and others remains vital, Africa must first mobilize its own political will, resources and innovations to drive the fight. He highlighted ongoing investments in research and development, diagnostic production, insecticide-treated nets and local manufacturing as examples of how Nigeria can build self-reliance.

The Minister also noted that while malaria vaccines have been introduced and piloted in Bayelsa and Kebbi States, uptake has been slower than expected. He cautioned that vaccines alone are not a “magic bullet,” and must be combined with other proven interventions such as case management, affordable medicines, community engagement and environmental control to achieve lasting impact.

Prof. Pate commended the RBM Partnership to End Malaria, the African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA) and other partners for their support, while reiterating Nigeria’s commitment to scaling up domestic financing and adapting global tools to local contexts. He urged all stakeholders, government, private sector, civil society and development partners to turn the “Big Push” initiative into concrete, coordinated action that accelerates Africa’s march toward malaria elimination.