The Nigerian Senate has passed for third reading a bill seeking the creation of a National Agency for Malaria Elimination, in what lawmakers say could reshape the country’s response to one of its biggest health problems.
The proposed agency is expected to coordinate malaria prevention, control, and long-term elimination efforts across the country.
Senator Ned Nwoko, who sponsored the bill, said the move could help Nigeria lead Africa’s push toward a malaria-free future. He argued that a dedicated agency would bring stronger structure to the fight against the disease and improve national coordination.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the bill as a landmark step, backing the idea as the upper chamber advanced the legislation.
Malaria remains a major public health burden in Nigeria, affecting millions of families each year, especially during the rainy season when cases often rise.
The bill still needs to complete the remaining legislative process before it can become law.