The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has reaffirmed its commitment and support for Nigeria in the fight against malaria. Sara Werth, the Deputy Mission Director, highlighted that the U.S. government, through the President’s Malaria Initiative, has been a steadfast partner in Nigeria’s malaria eradication efforts since 2011. Financial contributions from the U.S. have totaled $914 million, with $73 million allocated in 2023 alone.
At an event in Abuja to mark World Malaria Day, Werth praised the collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Health and the United States, emphasizing the importance of data-driven approaches to malaria programming. The theme for the 2024 World Malaria Day is ‘Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world’.
Malaria remains a significant health concern in Nigeria and globally, with Africa bearing a high burden of cases and deaths. In 2022, Nigeria accounted for 27% of global malaria cases and 31% of global deaths, especially affecting children under five years old.
USAID’s initiatives in 2023 involved distributing millions of bed nets, medications, and diagnostic tests, as well as training thousands of health workers to enhance their malaria detection and treatment skills. Through these efforts, the goal is to achieve a future where Nigerian families are no longer threatened by malaria.
“As we reflect on the challenges and triumphs in our collective battle against malaria, let us reaffirm our commitment to a future where no family in Nigeria fears the threat of this disease.
“I urge the government of Nigeria to invest in making malaria programming more efficient and effective using data and other evidence to inform malaria implementation and drive faster results.”
The recently published PMI Annual Report highlights PMI’s efforts to empower partner countries like Nigeria in their fight against malaria and in strengthening their health systems for greater effectiveness and resilience.
The U.S. Global Malaria Coordinator, Dr David Walton restated, “I commend the energy, dedication, and ingenuity of those working on the front lines to protect their communities from malaria. The United States is committed to working hand in hand with the people of Nigeria as we pursue our joint vision of a malaria-free future.”
 has reaffirmed its commitment and support for Nigeria in the fight against malaria. Sara Werth, the Deputy Mission Director, highlighted that the U.S. government, through the President's Malaria Initiative, has been a steadfast partner in Nigeria's malaria eradication efforts since 2011.){kind=link}