NDDC Promotes Collaboration In The Fight Against Malaria

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has urged all stakeholders in the region to step up efforts to rid the nation of malaria.

During the Commission’s World Malaria Day Enlightenment Campaign in Akure, Ondo State, NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, represented by Executive Director of Corporate Services Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde, stated that malaria kills more people than HIV.

In a statement by Pius Ughakpoteni,
Director of Corporate Affairs, Ogbuku, stated that “Malaria is a major public health concern in the tropical areas of the Sahara, and Nigeria has recorded approximately 68 million cases of malaria, resulting in over 194,000 deaths. As a result, there is an urgent need to take more decisive action to address the issue.”

Abegunde, who emphasised the NDDC’s commitment to ensuring free and accessible healthcare in the region, stated: “The NDDC recently conducted a free medical outreach across the region, where over 20,000 patients benefited from free medical consultations, diagnosis, treatments, and even surgeries.”

“It is our firm belief at NDDC that a more collaborative approach with relevant stakeholders will yield far-reaching results, particularly in the quest to eradicate malaria from the region and Nigeria as a whole.”

The Executive Director of Corporate Services also urged the region’s residents to seek medical attention as soon as possible if they noticed any symptoms.

Mr. Victor Asonye, Director of the NDDC’s Ondo State Office, praised the Commission’s current leadership for providing a platform for raising awareness about the causes, symptoms, and prevention of malaria.

He stated: “The World Malaria Day Enlightenment Campaign is part of the NDDC’s efforts to address our people’s healthcare needs by providing timely sensitization and awareness.”