Abuja: The Federal Ministry of Justice is opposing the National Agency for Malaria Eradication (Establishment) Bill 2025 SB 172, arguing that it would duplicate the functions of existing agencies, in alignment with the Orosanye report’s recommendations. Kolawole Maxwell, Chairman of the Malaria Technical Working Group in Nigeria, also expressed concerns about the bill. He emphasized the need to shift the current eradication target to elimination and recommended housing the malaria program within a coordinated government structure to enhance coordination and reduce fragmentation.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Fraden Bitrus representing NAFDAC, suggested focusing on strengthening current efforts instead of creating a new agency. Despite these objections, some stakeholders argue that the existing approach to malaria has been ineffective, which reinforces the urgency for the bill. They believe that coordination should not be confused with dedication, and that agencies like NAFDAC have broader mandates where malaria is just one of many priorities.
Proponents of the bill emphasize that without a dedicated structure, efforts to eliminate malaria remain seasonal, underfunded, and buried under bureaucratic layers. Ismaila Dankogi, President of the Environmental Health Officers Association in the Federal Capital Territory, stated that the proposed agency would transition Nigeria’s malaria strategy from curative to preventive. Chioma Amajoh, Executive Director of Community Vision Initiative, also supported the proposal, criticizing the current clinical management of malaria in Nigeria. She urged the senate committee on health to approve the proposal, describing the agency as essential for coordinated action.
Dr. Kingsley Akhamie from Nisa Premier Hospital, Abuja, highlighted the prevalence of malaria infections in both adults and children, warning of the potential for severe complications if not treated promptly. Dr. Tosin Ogunyemi from Lugbe Health Post noted a rise in pediatric malaria cases and stressed the importance of preventive measures, especially during the rainy season when malaria transmission is highest.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, in his remarks during the public hearing, advocated for moving beyond seasonal campaigns to institutionalized eradication efforts supported by law, science, and accountability. Observers stress the importance of seizing the opportunity to address malaria comprehensively and not allowing bureaucratic hurdles to impede progress.
