By Kemi Olatunde

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Ondo State has emerged as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s fight against malaria, the state’s Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Awolowo Ajaka,  has revealed.

Speaking with The Hope in Akure, Ajaka disclosed that the state has surpassed its 2030 projection for malaria eradication, positioning itself ahead of  other states in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“In Universal Health Coverage (UHC), we are leading the country,” Ajaka declared, attributing the achievement to the state’s proactive healthcare initiatives.

He commended the residents for their roles in the success and noted the significant strides made in 2024.

“The Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) last survey put us at the top of all states in Nigeria,” he said.

Ajaka highlighted the drastic reductions in key health indices, noting that under-five mortality had dropped from 65 percent to 15 percent.

“Infant mortality was brought to 5 from 32 per 1,000 live births, while neonatal mortality was reduced from 18 to 3. We are the best in the country,” he stated.

He expressed optimism about the future, stating that with sustained efforts, “we will have zero mortality for both mother and child.”

Ajaka described malaria as the leading cause of neonatal and maternal deaths in Nigeria and credited Ondo State’s success to meticulous planning and government policies.

He further emphasised the significance of the ongoing malaria impact programme, which focuses on immunisation and other preventive measures, as a key step toward complete malaria eradication.

The commissioner assured residents of the government’s unwavering commitment to prioritising the prevention, treatment, and elimination of malaria in the state.