End malaria for good: a review of current strategies and future novelties for malaria elimination in Nigeria

Abstract

Malaria is endemic in 91 countries and territories. Currently, over half of the world's population is at risk for malaria with malaria prevalence in sub-Saharan Africa remaining the highest in the world. Nigeria accounts for 56% of malaria cases in the West African sub-region. Malaria control is historically the oldest control programme in Nigeria, having been in existence since 1948. Malaria control in Nigeria is guided by National Malaria Strategic Plans. The goal of the NMSP (2014-2020) is 'to reduce malaria burden to pre-elimination levels and bring malaria-related mortality to zero' using strategies under seven strategic objectives. The theme for the 2017 World Malaria Day activities was 'End Malaria for Good'. This theme indicates a sustained push for national and international commitments toward goal zero. Although the prevalence of malaria has dropped significantly, from 42% in 2010 to 27.4% in 2015, a lot of effort needs to be made to actualise a malaria-free Nigeria. This review discusses the current strategies in place to control and eliminate malaria. It also describes some future novelties available to sub-Saharan Africa and Nigeria to 'End Malaria for Good.'