World Malaria Day: NDDC gives succor to victims
The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has given succor to malaria related victims as part of her activities to mark the 2024 World Malaria Day celebration.
The commission promised to intensify its efforts in the battle against malaria in the Niger Delta region, as part of its broader vision for sustainable development.
The MD/CEO of the commission, Dr Samuel Ogbuku who was represented by the Akwa Ibom state representative in the governing board, Apostle Abasiandikan Nkono, gave the assurance during an event to commomorate this year’s World Malaria Day celebration.
He described malaria as a global scourge which is disproportionately affecting African nations, particularly the Niger Delta region. He highlighted that the factors triggering malaria are often overlooked, especially in African countries where the disease continues to claim lives, particularly among children under the age of five and pregnant women.
“Malaria is a scourge that has rendered many dead, especially children and pregnant women. When a woman is pregnant, her resistance to malaria is significantly reduced, making it easier for the parasite to penetrate”, he noted.
Dr Ogbuku revealed that under his supervision, the Commission is committed to collaborating with multilateral and multinational institutions, as well as public-spirited individuals, to tackle malaria head-on. He noted that NDDC, as an interventionist agency, will be raising numerous initiatives aimed at combating malaria in the region.
“We are joining hands with international and local partners to fight this great scourge. Living in a clean environment is a key strategy in the fight against malaria. The Commission is particularly concerned about the fate of children, pregnant women, and migrants who are most vulnerable to this disease”, Ogbuku stressed.
Highpoint of the celebration featured presentations from various resource persons who discussed the challenges and opportunities in the fight against malaria. The speakers underscored the importance of access to finance, a conducive environment, and improved living conditions in reducing malaria incidence.
On his part, the Akwa Ibom state director, Engr Evong Evong while fielding questions from newsmen said World Malaria Day is an international observance commemorated annually to raise awareness of malaria and funds for its prevention, treatment, and eradication. He said the commission has to key into the celebration with the theme for this year’s event, “Accelerating The Fight Against Malaria For a More Equitable World.”
The director emphasized on the urgent need for coordinated global efforts to roll back maleria.