By Simeon OSAJIE
The Edo State Ministry of Health has joined the global community to commemorate the 2026 World Malaria Day with renewed commitment to ending malaria through free testing, treatment and public awareness campaigns.
Addressing journalists at a press conference in Benin, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, said the 2026 theme, “Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can, Now We Must”, is a strong call for urgent action against the deadly disease.
Dr. Oshiomhole said Nigeria still carries the highest malaria burden in the world, describing the situation as a national emergency that requires collective efforts from government, health workers and citizens.
He, however, noted that Edo State government is taking practical steps to reduce the burden of malaria under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo.
According to him, one of the major interventions introduced by the present administration is free malaria testing and treatment in all government hospitals across the state.
While stating that no resident should die from a disease that is preventable and treatable, Dr. Oshiomhole added that the state government has continued to strengthen access to rapid diagnostic testing, ensure availability of effective anti-malaria medicines, increase public awareness and promote preventive measures at all levels of healthcare delivery.
As part of activities to mark the day, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank and the African Youth Growth Foundation, organised free malaria testing, screening and treatment for workers and visitors at the State Secretariat Complex.
The Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, was among dignitaries who participated in the malaria screening exercise.
Other dignitaries present at the event included the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr Andrew Iyamu; Executive Secretary, Edo State Drugs Management and Health Commodities Agency, Pharm. Dr. Kenny Okojie; Executive Secretary, Hospital Management Agency, Dr Nelson Tenebe; State Coordinator WHO, Eyor Nora; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of health, Dr. Paul Eighemhenrio; and Project Director of the African Youth Growth Foundation, Dr. Victor Woga, among others.
Beneficiaries who took part in the exercise expressed appreciation to the Edo State Government for providing the opportunity to be tested free of charge and receive malaria treatment drugs. They said the intervention would help many residents to know their health status early and get proper treatment.
To further commemorate the day, health officials and stakeholders also carried out a road rally through major streets in Benin City to sensitise residents on malaria prevention, early testing and proper treatment.