Media personality and cross-border business operator, Esther Adekeye, popularly known as Cute Kimani, on Saturday hosted the National Coordinator of the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP), Dr. Nnenna Chizaram Ogbulafor, in a World Malaria Day TweetChat on X. The session, themed #ZeroMalariaStartsWithMe, brought together stakeholders and the public for a focused conversation on individual and collective action required to eliminate malaria in Nigeria.
During the one-hour session, Dr. Ogbulafor emphasized the urgent need for sustained public participation in malaria prevention and treatment, noting that while government-led interventions provide the necessary tools, outcomes depend significantly on individual behavior and awareness. “Malaria is a life-threatening disease, but it is preventable and treatable when the right steps are taken,” she said.
Addressing the widespread issue of self-medication, she stressed the importance of proper diagnosis before treatment. “Testing is essential. It confirms the presence of malaria parasites and ensures patients receive the correct treatment. We recommend Rapid Diagnostic Tests or microscopy before any medication is taken,” she added.
Dr. Ogbulafor further highlighted that early diagnosis helps prevent severe complications, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children under five and pregnant women. She reiterated that Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy remains the recommended treatment once malaria is confirmed.
On prevention, she encouraged consistent use of Insecticide-Treated Nets and Indoor Residual Spraying, alongside environmental sanitation. “Malaria mosquitoes bite mostly at night. Sleeping under a treated net significantly reduces the risk of infection. Eliminating stagnant water around homes is also critical to stopping mosquito breeding,” she said.
The discussion also covered targeted interventions such as Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention for children and Intermittent Preventive Treatment for pregnant women. In her closing remarks, Dr. Ogbulafor commended the platform, noting that digital engagement plays a vital role in public health awareness. The TweetChat reinforced the role of media, digital platforms, and community participation in driving awareness and action toward a malaria-free Nigeria.
