By Lucy Anyim
The Ebonyi State Malaria Elimination Programme Manager, Mr. John Chukwuemeka Nkwuda, has urged stakeholders to work collectively towards developing the 2026 Annual Operational Plan (AOP) for malaria eradication in the state.
He made the call at Ochudo Centenary City, Abakaliki, during a four-day capacity-building workshop that brought together thematic leads, directors, unit heads, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and technical experts.
Mr. Nkwuda explained that the training was designed to strengthen the skills of participants in malaria planning and to familiarize them with the new AOP template. According to him, a well-developed and costed AOP would provide a roadmap for malaria elimination efforts and attract needed support from partners, the state government, the Ministry of Health, and well-meaning individuals.
He emphasized that the plan covers critical areas of public health such as case management, surveillance, monitoring and evaluation, operational research, programme management, advocacy, communication and social mobilization (ACSM), Procurement and Supply Management (PSM), and Integrated Vector Management (IVM).
“Closing every gap and creating a robust framework through these strategies will give us the needed leverage to eliminate malaria in Ebonyi State,” Nkwuda stated.
The Programme Manager also encouraged residents to consistently use mosquito insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and to seek appropriate treatment with recommended malaria drugs. He disclosed that malaria commodities such as Malaria Rapid Diagnostic Tests (MRDT), Artemisinin-based Combination Therapies (ACTs), and artesunate injections, supported by the US Presidential Malaria Initiative (PMI), are available across health facilities in the state.
However, Nkwuda noted that the current stock of ITNs is inadequate, stressing that the nets are due for replacement in 2026, as their distribution cycle runs every four years.
Highlights of the event included plenary sessions, technical reviews, and lectures delivered by the Malaria Operational Plan Consultant, Mr. Lawrence Nwankwo, alongside other resource persons.
Lucy Enyim is the Head of Public Relations Unit, Ebonyi State Ministry of Health.
