John Ovie, YENAGOA
The government of Bayelsa state says it has resolved to put and end to malaria disease in the state which is one of the deadliest pandemic in the world especially in African countries.
This is coming as the globe marks World Malaria Day which is observed on April 25th every year.
As of April 2026, data indicates that approximately 610,000 people died from malaria globally in 2024, with figures remaining heavily concentrated in sub-Saharan Africa.
Nigeria, according to reports, bears the highest burden, accounting for over 30 percent of global deaths, with children under 5 as the most affected, making up roughly 76 percent of all regional deaths.
The Bayelsa state government, in a statement, emphasized that malaria has become a major health concern in the state given its riverine nature, noting that the scourge remains a threat to children and the highest cause of visitation to the hospitals with its attendant financial implications.
The government urges parents and individuals to take responsibility in the fight against the disease by sleeping under treated nets, seeking early medical care and ensuring children are vaccinated.
The statement says, under the present administration of governor Douye Diri, efforts are ongoing through the state ministry of health, to fight malaria to a standstill, including distribution of vaccines to eligible children, distribution of antimalarial drugs and treated bed nets free of charge.
It also promised to strengthen primary healthcare centres for early diagnosis and treatment, adding that the increased public health awareness remains key.
It added that with available tools and collective efforts, malaria can be eliminated from Bayelsa state.
