Malaria in Nigeria

Nigeria accounts for one-quarter of malaria cases in Africa and there are more deaths caused by malaria in Nigeria than in any other country.  The disease is reportedly responsible for 60% of outpatient visits to health facilities; 30% childhood deaths; 25% of death of children under one year and 11% of maternal deaths.  Approximately 1 in 6 Nigerian children die of malaria before their 5^th birthday.

Economic loss, from treatment costs, prevention, loss of man-hours etc. is estimated at N132 billion ($660,000) annually.

Nigeria’s entire 177 million population is at risk from malaria. The country accounts for an estimated 23% of cases worldwide and a third of all deaths. Malaria is the leading cause of child deaths in the country and around 250,000 Nigerian children die every year from the disease.

Malaria cases overwhelm Nigeria’s health system causing 60% of the country’s outpatient visits and 30% of hospitalisations among children under five years of age. Preventing malaria therefore not only saves lives from malaria, it also frees up vital health resources to address other problems.

Nigeria has made fighting malaria one of its top priorities and is increasing its own government spending to tackle the disease.