Group calls for swift presidential assent, warns success of proposed malaria agency hinges on transparency, adequate funding, and effective implementation

The Maternal Accountability Mechanism in Kaduna Initiative (KADMAM) has commended the Nigerian Senate for passing the National Malaria Elimination Agency Bill, describing it as a landmark move to strengthen Nigeria’s fight against malaria and improve public health outcomes, particularly for women and children.

In a statement signed by Garba Muhammad, Co-Chairman of KADMAM, and made available to journalists in Kaduna, the group said the bill represents a critical step toward reducing the country’s malaria burden.

“Malaria remains one of the leading causes of maternal and child morbidity and mortality in Nigeria, with devastating effects on vulnerable families and communities,” the statement read.

KADMAM noted that the establishment of a dedicated National Malaria Elimination Agency offers a timely opportunity to coordinate stronger interventions, improve prevention and treatment services, and accelerate progress toward malaria elimination nationwide.

The organisation said the passage of the bill reflects the outcome of sustained advocacy and collaborative engagements by lawmakers, health advocates, civil society organisations, development partners, media alliances, and stakeholders. It singled out KADMAM, the Kaduna Health Advocacy Media Alliance (KADHAMA), and other media networks across the country for consistently supporting the process and amplifying calls for stronger institutional mechanisms to combat malaria.

KADMAM particularly applauded the sponsors of the bill, members of the National Assembly, and all stakeholders whose commitment, advocacy, and public enlightenment efforts contributed to the legislative milestone.

The group also appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to expedite assent to the bill to fast-track the establishment of the National Malaria Elimination Agency and strengthen Nigeria’s response to one of its most persistent public health challenges.

While celebrating the achievement, KADMAM stressed that the true impact of the proposed agency will depend largely on prudent implementation, transparency, accountability, and sustained political commitment at all levels.

The organisation called on the Federal Government and relevant stakeholders to ensure that the agency, once established, is adequately funded and supported with the necessary human and technical resources to effectively deliver on its mandate.

It further urged that all interventions and budgetary allocations under the agency be guided by accountability, evidence-based planning, and measurable outcomes to guarantee that resources reach the communities and populations most affected by malaria.

KADMAM added that consistent and sustainable funding mechanisms must be prioritised to avoid disruptions in malaria prevention and treatment programmes, particularly in rural and underserved communities where the burden remains highest.

“As an accountability-focused organisation committed to advancing maternal, newborn, and child health, KADMAM remains ready to continue collaborating with government institutions, development partners, civil society organisations, media organisations, and community stakeholders to support advocacy, monitoring, and public engagement efforts aimed at achieving a malaria-free Nigeria,” the statement concluded.