Malaria Incidence in FCT Declines Significantly to 7.9%

Malaria cases in Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have seen a significant decrease, falling from 18.8% in 2021 to 7.9% in 2025, marking a reduction of more than half.

This achievement was announced by Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, the Mandate Secretary for the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, during the commencement of the 2026 World Malaria Day activities in Abuja. She presented data confirming the decline in malaria prevalence within the FCT.

According to Dr. Fasawe, this positive trend is a direct result of various interventions, including Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention efforts supported by the Malaria Consortium, and an elimination project funded by the Islamic Development Bank and managed by FAMKRIS Healthcare Initiative.

She affirmed the FCTA's continued dedication to enhancing malaria control strategies through improved monitoring, expanded interventions, and robust partnerships across all levels of governance.

Despite this progress, malaria continues to be a primary reason for hospital visits in the FCT. Dr. Fasawe highlighted that individuals in rural and underserved areas still face challenges accessing essential preventive measures and treatment.

The public is urged to take personal responsibility by embracing preventive actions. These include consistently using insecticide-treated bed nets, ensuring pregnant women receive necessary preventive treatments during antenatal care, participating in seasonal malaria prevention programs, maintaining clean surroundings, and seeking immediate diagnosis and treatment if symptoms arise.

Dan Gadzama, the Director of Public Health, emphasized that the FCTA's success is built upon strong collaborations and focused initiatives, particularly its work with the Malaria Consortium, which has boosted malaria prevention among children during periods of high transmission.

He further noted that the expansion of community-based programs has substantially improved the reach and accessibility of vital health services.

Hajiya Zainab Ibrahim, Project Manager for the FCT Malaria Elimination Programme, stated that the drop in malaria prevalence reflects the sustained impact of multi-sectoral efforts targeting vulnerable groups, especially young children and expectant mothers.

She pointed out that despite Abuja's status as a major city, certain underserved communities remain at risk, necessitating ongoing interventions. These include enhancing the skills of healthcare workers and improving logistical support for health facilities.

Aniefiok Akpasa, Clinical Manager at FAMKRIS, affirmed that the support from partner organizations has led to a consistent reduction in malaria rates, underscoring the effectiveness of investments in diagnostic and treatment services.

He lauded the FCTA for fostering a collaborative environment that facilitates impactful health programs. Akpasa stressed that continuous funding, innovation, and community involvement are crucial for sustaining these gains and ultimately eradicating malaria in the FCT.

The global observance in 2026 is being marked with the theme: “Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can, Now We Must.”