Nigeria’s malaria burden has surged once again as new government data reveals that 24.47 million Nigerians tested positive for malaria between January and September 2025. The figures, contained in the latest National Health Statistics Report released by the Federal Ministry of Health, highlight a persistent public health challenge despite ongoing nationwide interventions.
According to the breakdown, 7.3 million cases were confirmed between January and March, while 7.8 million infections were recorded from April to June. The highest spike occurred between July and September, with 9.3 million Nigerians testing positive, marking a significant rise as the rainy season intensified mosquito breeding across the country.
The report further shows that malaria treatment remains in high demand, with 23.85 million Nigerians receiving Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACT) within the same nine-month period. Health officials warn that the rising case numbers are placing additional strain on hospitals and community health facilities already battling resource shortages.
Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, described the statistics as “deeply concerning,” noting that malaria remains one of Nigeria’s leading causes of illness and death. He called for renewed investments in preventive measures, including increased distribution of insecticide-treated nets, improved sanitation, and expanded access to rapid diagnostic testing.
Public health experts emphasize that climate patterns, poor drainage systems, and limited access to preventive tools continue to fuel widespread infections. They warn that without sustained community-level sensitization and government commitment, malaria will remain a major threat to national health security.
The Ministry urged Nigerians to adopt preventive habits and seek early treatment as efforts to curb the disease intensify nationwide.
