Edo Gov Warns Against Illegal Charges As State Launches Free Malaria Test, Treatment
By Osehobo Ofure, Benin
Anyone caught charging fees for the approved malaria test kits, which are meant for free distribution in government hospitals across Edo State, will be dealt with, Governor Monday Okpebholo has warned.
Speaking while flagging off the free malaria testing, treatment, and distribution of malaria drugs to combat the scourge in the state, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eliminating malaria.
“We, however, need everyone’s support. While free testing and treatment are in place, awareness is key. We will run campaigns to ensure everyone knows about these services. Anyone caught charging for this free service will be dealt with accordingly,” Okpebholo stated.
He emphasized that malaria remains a major health challenge but assured that his administration is determined to eradicate it in Edo State, just as Algeria, Ivory Coast, and Mauritius have done.
“The support from the Islamic Development Bank will help us achieve this, in line with my administration’s commitment to affordable healthcare services in the state,” he added.
Over the next two years, the governor said, his administration aims to ensure that 80% of pregnant women in the state receive free malaria prevention kits and treatment. Additionally, 95% of citizens will benefit from the initiative, which is also expected to reduce infant mortality due to malaria to below 10%.
Governor Okpebholo expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to better healthcare, the Islamic Development Bank for its funding and support, and the Federal Ministry of Health for its guidance.
State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, assured that all government hospitals in Edo State will provide free malaria testing and treatment over the next two years.
Similarly, the Director General of the Edo State Health Insurance Commission, Mrs. Augusta Ikpea-Enaholo, emphasized that the commission is committed to ensuring every citizen of Edo State has access to affordable and free malaria medication.
She described malaria as a pandemic and praised the governor for his proactive steps toward eradicating the disease in the state.
Mrs. Edesili Anani Okpebholo, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, commended the administration’s commitment to public health.
“As simple as malaria seems, it is deadly. Statistics show that 30% of Edo citizens are affected by it. The state has taken bold steps to fight and significantly reduce it,” she noted.
She urged Edo residents to embrace the initiative, highlighting that malaria disproportionately affects women and children.
