RismadarVoice Reporters, April 27, 2026
The Rivers State Government has reiterated its commitment to supporting public health initiatives aimed at eliminating malaria, describing the disease as a persistent threat to communities despite years of intervention.
The Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, made this known at the 5th Malaria Annual Health Colloquium recently at the Senate Building of Rivers State University.
She was represented at the event by the Executive Secretary of the Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme (RVCHPP), Dr Vetty Agala.
Prof. Odu said malaria remains a major public health challenge, stressing that forums such as the annual colloquium demonstrate the government’s resolve to tackle the disease through innovation, research, and strategic partnerships.
“The theme of this year’s colloquium is both timely and inspiring,” she said, referring to the 2026 focus: ‘Accelerating Malaria Elimination Through Academic Innovation: Rivers State University Leads the Way.’ She noted that the theme highlights the critical role of academic institutions in developing sustainable solutions and shaping policies necessary for malaria eradication.
The deputy governor called on stakeholders—including government agencies, development partners, private sector actors, and local communities—to intensify efforts in prevention, early diagnosis, and effective treatment of malaria.
She also commended the organisers for their commitment to advancing public health discourse and driving impactful initiatives.
In her remarks, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of RVCHPP, Dr Vetty Rolegherighan Agala, described malaria as one of the most enduring health challenges in Nigeria and across Sub-Saharan Africa. She emphasised that eliminating the disease is essential to achieving universal health coverage.
Represented by the Director of Health Services at RVCHPP, Dr Barinem Dimkpa, Agala expressed concern over the continued prevalence of malaria despite decades of interventions, noting that vulnerable populations remain disproportionately affected.
She added that the colloquium provides a critical platform for stakeholders to examine ongoing challenges, share insights, and strengthen partnerships needed to accelerate progress toward malaria elimination.
