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From Lateef Dada, Osogbo
A nongovernmental organisation founded by Nigerian-American professionals, the Diaspora Solution Group Nigeria (DSGN), has initiated a project aimed at eradicating malaria in Nigeria. Announced during a national conference on malaria elimination in Osogbo, Osun State, at the weekend, Soba Oyeleke, the President of DSGN, said the project sought to tackle the disease at its root and support millions of Nigerians still at risk.
The launch of the malaria attenuation project by DSGN, according to the group, reflects a significant step toward addressing public health challenges in Nigeria, emphasising collaboration and innovative solutions in combating diseases.
He stressed the urgency of the initiative, noting that despite the government’s efforts, malaria remains one of the deadliest health challenges in Nigeria. He emphasised the need for a bolder, science-driven approach to combat the disease at genetic and biological levels.
“Our focus is clear: to explore emerging tools, assess evidence and align with pathways that support safer and more effective malaria control interventions,” Oyeleke stated.
He explained that similar eradication efforts had succeeded in about 35 countries, and DSGN was ready to replicate that success in Nigeria.
According to him, the project would soon move into a pilot stage, with plans to capture and control mosquito populations. He urged the government and other stakeholders to take collaborative responsibility for the initiative, stating, “They should not think this is our responsibility alone.”
At the conference, a Professor of Pharmacology and Therapeutics from the University of Ibadan, Olusegun Ademowo, stated that human behaviour poses significant challenges in the fight against malaria.
He stressed that changing attitudes and embracing cleaner environments were crucial for eradication efforts. “What causes malaria does not have legs or wings, yet it moves from one person to another. So, we need to change our attitude,” he noted.
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, who was represented by the Commissioner for Health, Jola Akintola, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to advancing public health.
He said: “Malaria has claimed precious lives and drained our resources. Through collaboration, innovation and community engagement, we can rewrite this narrative.”
Adeleke promised to strengthen healthcare delivery and support awareness campaigns while providing resources for sustainable prevention and effective treatment of malaria. He emphasised that the fight against malaria requires collective efforts from health professionals, researchers and communities.
