By Aderonke Ojediran
Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State says eradication of malaria will boost social-economic development of the state.
The governor made the assertion in a keynote address at the state’s launch of Pathway to Malaria Pre-elimination Digitalisation Programme, on Tuesday in Lagos.
“Malaria is more than a socio-economic burden that has held back Lagos State. It has held back families and communities for a long time. It robs us of our productivity.
“It drains us of our household income, and for many households in Lagos, especially those who are low income earners, malaria reduces their earnings and their abilities to continue to earn more,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu said it was imperative to tackle malaria in order to protect the vulnerable such as pregnant women and children under five years.
“Today, we have to change the narrative. Eradication of malaria is not just good health news, it is indeed imperative,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The governor urged regular tests for malaria, urging the state residents to stop self-medication.
“This programme represents a hope based on innovation, collaboration and determination by leveraging digital tools to ensure that every malaria case is tracked in real time,” he said.
The Minister of State for Health, Dr Iziaq Salako, applauded Lagos State for the initiative.
“I remember that during the administration of President Bola Tinubu as Governor of Lagos State, he kick-started a Lagos-free malaria project and other states followed suit.
“I want to applaud the excellent governor of the centre for excellence for not dropping the ball,” the minister said.
Prof. Akin Abayomi, Lagos State Commissioner for Health, said it was important to be tested and get appropriate treatment when feeling unwell.
NAN reports that malaria tests was conducted on the governor and the minister at the event, and the results were negative. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Augusta Uchediunor/Ijeoma Popoola
