In a momentous stride towards the eradication of malaria in Nigeria, Her Regal Majesty, Ambassador (Dr.) Olori Temitope Enitan Ogunwusi, the Malaria Elimination Advocate for the Southwest region, was appointed as the Southwest Malaria Advocate in August 2023, alongside her esteemed project coordinator, Mr. Olusegun Akapo, on The Malaria Elimination Advocacy, had the distinct privilege of engaging with Professor Muhammed Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare.
Convened on 8th March 2024, this high-profile gathering was a confluence of expertise, dedication, and commitment to tackle one of Nigeria’s most persistent health challenges – malaria. The discussions were marked by a fervent exchange of ideas and strategies aimed at charting a course towards a malaria-free future for Nigeria.
In attendance were esteemed individuals including Dr. Godwin Ntadom, National Coordinator of the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP); Mr. Rapheal Oyinlo, representing NMEP; and Barrister Chinedu Moghalu, Special Senior Adviser to the Coordinating Minister of Health, among others.
Professor Pate, renowned for his dedication to public health, lauded Her Regal Majesty for her commitment to the cause. He emphasized the imperative need for a paradigm shift in the approach to malaria elimination, acknowledging the pivotal role that advocacy groups play in driving progress.
Central to the discourse was the recognition of the multifaceted nature of the malaria problem in Nigeria and the necessity for a holistic, collaborative approach. Professor Pate underscored the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to partnering with stakeholders, including advocacy groups like Her Regal Majesty’s, to leverage collective expertise and resources in the fight against malaria.
The meeting concluded with a resounding endorsement by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare; Professor Muhammad Ali Pate of collaborative efforts between Her Regal Majesty and the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. Together, they are poised to embark on a transformative journey towards malaria elimination, not only in the Southwest region but across Nigeria.
This milestone event serves as a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of collective action in addressing complex health challenges. As she forges ahead, Her Regal Majesty stands steadfast in her resolve to turn the tide against malaria, ensuring a brighter and healthier future for generations to come.
