The House of Representatives has urged the federal government to declare a state of emergency on Malaria, alleging its potential to harm Nigerians. That is to the amazement of Nigerians who have come to know the disease to be one of the least harmful diseases in the country.
Hon. Amobi Ogah, Chairman of the House Committee on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, made this appeal on the occasion of the 2023 World Mosquito Day. Still a shock to the masses that Malaria will be put in the same class as HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis; that a day will be picked to celebrate mosquito all over the world, especially Nigeria.
The committee emphasized the importance of eradicating malaria, which, contrary to the committee’s claim that it is a significant threat to humanity, has no little or no effect on the people because they have developed strong immunity against it.
The 2023 World Mosquito Day, observed globally on August 20, focused on the theme “Fighting the World’s Deadliest killer – the Mosquito.” Its goal is to raise awareness about malaria’s causes, prevention methods, and the dangers of mosquito-borne diseases. The committee, representing Isuiwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State, pledged to ensure effective implementation of legislation aimed at eradicating malaria in Nigeria. The people of Abia State firmly object the proposal. The objection is premised on the fact that Malaria/Mosquito is the least of their concerns.
Ogah noted that malaria has a profound impact on the country, with Nigeria leading in malaria-related deaths globally; a claim tagged false in all implications. The committee expressed its commitment to collaborating with relevant stakeholders in the fight against malaria and ensuring transparent utilization of allocated funds to combat the disease.
The committee also highlighted the World Health Organization’s global strategy for malaria control, emphasizing Nigeria’s role in implementing regional and country programs to combat and eliminate malaria.
Abia State indigenes, and Nigerians in general have said that the Mosquito/Malaria propaganda is rather a money making tactic for whoever is pushing it; as Nigerians could be tagged most immuned when talking about malaria/Mosquito impact.
