In a bold move to combat malaria and ensure healthcare accessibility, the Enugu State Government has issued a strict warning against any healthcare facility charging residents for malaria testing or treatment over the next two years. The announcement was made by the State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Ikechukwu Obi, during the official launch of the Enugu State Malaria Elimination Initiative, a program supported by the Islamic Development Bank Lives and Livelihood Fund.
Prof. Obi made it clear that malaria drugs and diagnostic tests must be provided free of charge across all healthcare centers in the state. To enforce this policy, the government has activated a whistleblower system, encouraging residents to report any facility that demands payment for these services.
“If anybody charges for anti-malaria drugs, please report to the whistleblower policy of Enugu State through the Ministry of Health, and we will take action,” he declared. Residents can lodge complaints via phone calls or email, ensuring swift government intervention against violators.
Malaria remains a critical health issue in Nigeria, with Enugu State recording a 24% prevalence rate, higher than the national average of 21%. Dr. Nnenna Ogbulafor, National Coordinator of the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP), highlighted that this initiative marks the first major malaria intervention in Enugu since 2014–2015. She urged residents to take full advantage.
credit:- Punch Newspapers