By Chidinma Olivia Patrick
As the world marks World Malaria Day 2026 today, the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Anambra State Branch, in collaboration with the Young Pharmacists Group, has called for stronger and coordinated efforts to eliminate malaria in Nigeria.
In a statement released to commemorate the day, the group noted that this year’s theme, “Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can. Now We Must.” highlights the urgent need for action, stressing that malaria remains one of the most serious public health challenges in Nigeria despite being preventable and treatable.
The pharmacists acknowledged that remarkable progress has been made globally over the past two decades, with billions of malaria cases prevented, millions of lives saved, and several countries achieving malaria-free status.
They also cited medical advancements such as effective antimalarial drugs, rapid diagnostic tests, vaccines, and improved insecticide-treated mosquito nets as major tools that have strengthened the fight against the disease.
However, the statement expressed concern that malaria continues to claim hundreds of thousands of lives yearly, with Nigeria accounting for a significant share of the burden.
According to the group, many of these deaths are preventable and are often caused by late diagnosis, poor treatment practices, self-medication, and the circulation of fake or substandard medicines.
The pharmacists said they remain a critical part of the healthcare system, often serving as the first point of contact for patients seeking treatment.
They emphasized that beyond dispensing medicines, pharmacists ensure patients receive the right drugs in the proper dosage and duration, while also encouraging testing before treatment and helping detect treatment failure early.
The statement warned that drug resistance remains one of the biggest threats to malaria control, largely driven by misuse of medicines and failure to complete treatment.
Residents were advised to adopt preventive measures such as sleeping under insecticide-treated mosquito nets, keeping surroundings clean and free of stagnant water, seeking prompt testing for fever, using only recommended antimalarial drugs, and completing prescribed treatment.
The group maintained that ending malaria requires the collective efforts of individuals, communities, healthcare workers, and government.
They added that with the right knowledge, tools, and commitment, a future where no life is lost to malaria is possible.
