By: Theresa Donatus, Uyo.
In a concerted effort to combat the prevalence of malaria in Akwa Ibom State, the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), in collaboration with the State Ministry of Health and other health-focused partners, distributed over 500 units of malaria preventive drugs free of charge during a sensitization rally in Uyo.
The outreach, held at Akpan Andem Market in Uyo to mark the 2025 World Malaria Day, was organised under the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA), a pet project of the late wife of Governor Umo Eno.
The event drew a large turnout of market traders and residents eager to receive health education and the free medication.
Speaking at the rally, the PSN State Chairman, Pharmacist Abasiama Uwatt, emphasized the need for collective action in the fight against malaria, stressing that eradication efforts should not be left to government alone.
“Malaria ends with us, that’s the message,” she said, reflecting on this year’s global theme: “Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest. Reimagine. Reignite.”
Uwatt reiterated the importance of community involvement, pointing out that Nigeria bears one of the heaviest global burdens of malaria and needs grassroots collaboration to tackle it effectively.
Participants at the rally were also educated on preventive measures such as the use of insecticide-treated nets, indoor residual spraying, and proper hygiene.
Lady Helen Eno Obareki, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, encouraged market women to take responsibility for their health and hygiene, noting that “malaria is not a death sentence, it is preventable.”
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem John, announced that the government has made malaria tests, drugs, and mosquito nets freely available at public health facilities.
He urged citizens to use mosquito nets appropriately and avoid diverting them for non-health-related purposes like farming.
Health professionals from the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN) and the Association of Lady Pharmacists (ALPs) also gave educational talks, highlighting the importance of clean environments, timely treatment, and sustained awareness in achieving a malaria-free Akwa Ibom.
World Malaria Day is observed globally every April 25 to raise awareness and drive action towards eliminating the disease.