Lagos State says it is shifting from controlling malaria to completely eliminating the parasite that causes the disease, with digital technologies driving its ambitious plan.
Professor Akin Abayomi, Lagos State Commissioner for Health, discloses that around 40,000 malaria Rapid Diagnostic Tests (mRDTs) carried out by Patent and Proprietary Medicine Vendors (PPMVs) and Community Pharmacies (CPs) recorded a notably low positivity rate. He says the results signal the State’s readiness “to move beyond malaria control to true elimination.”
Abayomi, who presents the findings at the mid-term review of the Pathway to Malaria Pre-elimination and Digitisation Programme, adds that data from public health facilities also confirm a sustained decline in malaria positivity rates. The consistency, he says, underscores the coherence of the State’s approach.
Sanwo-Olu highlights the role of digital tools in bridging the information gaps that once slowed diagnosis, reporting, and response. By deploying real-time reporting systems and digital platforms across public and private health facilities, Lagos is improving surveillance and accountability.
The review brings together partners supporting Lagos under the World Bank-funded Immunisation Plus and Malaria Progress by Accelerating Coverage and Transforming Services (IMPACT) project, who reaffirm backing for the elimination drive.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu says digitisation is enabling Lagos to set measurable goals and accelerate progress in its fight against malaria.
“When the Pathway to Malaria Pre-elimination and Digitisation Programme was launched in March, we had a clear goal: to transform hope into tangible results and to shift Lagos from a high burden of malaria to pre-elimination. This will ultimately pave the way for a malaria-free future,” the Governor says.
He explains that the State is targeting a malaria prevalence rate below 1%, with efforts centred on improving diagnostics, ensuring consistent treatment, and deepening community engagement.
Sanwo-Olu highlights the role of digital tools in bridging the information gaps that once slowed diagnosis, reporting, and response. By deploying real-time reporting systems and digital platforms across public and private health facilities, Lagos is improving surveillance and accountability.
“Through partnerships with innovative companies, we are enhancing diagnostic accuracy, standardising case management, and integrating private providers into the State surveillance system. These initiatives enable Lagos to respond more swiftly and allocate resources where they are needed most,” the Governor says.
According to him, the mid-term review focuses on three areas: strengthening digital reporting systems for transparency, ensuring adherence to treatment protocols, and incorporating community action to disrupt malaria transmission.
“To all Lagosians, this fight is just as much yours as it is mine. Every little action counts, whether it is getting rid of standing water, using treated nets, or getting tested before taking antimalarials,” Sanwo-Olu says.
Professor Abayomi adds that the Ministry of Health is reinforcing quality assurance, with the Health Facilities Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) intensifying oversight to ensure equitable care across public and private providers.
“Together, we are consolidating gains and building irreversible momentum. With unity of purpose and courage of conviction, we will continue to scale our efforts and move Lagos ever closer to the ultimate prize: a future free from the scourge of malaria,” the Commissioner says.
The IMPACT project, backed by the World Bank and the Islamic Development Bank, is providing funding and technical support to Lagos’ malaria elimination plan, particularly at primary points of care.
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