Malaria: Benue Approves N294.53m to Protect Children
Benue State Government Allocates N294.53 Million for Malaria Prevention Campaign
Makurdi, Benue State — The Benue State Government has approved N294.53 million in counterpart funding for the 2026 Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention (SMC) Campaign. This funding underscores the administration’s commitment to enhancing preventive healthcare and safeguarding children from malaria.
The approval was made during a meeting of the State Executive and Security Council at the Government House in Makurdi, led by Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia.
Paul Ogwuche, the Honourable Commissioner for Health and Human Services, praised Governor Alia for the decision, calling it a strong indication of his dedication to protecting the health of children in Benue and investing in preventive healthcare measures.
“The approval reflects the Governor’s broader vision to revamp the health sector through strategic investments, enhanced partnerships, improved coordination, and increased accountability for health outcomes,” Ogwuche said.
He added that the Ministry of Health and Human Services is committed to a proactive approach in developing the health sector, focusing on resource mobilization, partnership creation, effective program coordination, and interventions that yield tangible benefits for the state’s residents.
Ogwuche explained that the state’s funding will supplement financial, technical, and implementation support from the development partner, PATH, in executing the 2026 SMC campaign. He highlighted the importance of government ownership and sustainability for the program’s success.
The commissioner also noted that the effectiveness of the campaign hinges not only on allocated resources but also on the dedication and professionalism of those executing it. He urged healthcare workers, program managers, and volunteers to ensure that medicines and other resources reach those in need while maintaining accurate records and engaging effectively with the community.
Ogwuche emphasized that the substantial government investment should translate into significant health improvements for children in Benue, urging all involved to view the campaign as a crucial investment in the future of the state’s youth.
He called on parents, caregivers, traditional and religious leaders, and community stakeholders to support the government’s efforts by ensuring all eligible children participate in the campaign and receive necessary medications from trained personnel.
Community cooperation with health workers was also stressed to achieve comprehensive coverage during the campaign.
Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention is a recognized public health strategy aimed at protecting children in regions where malaria transmission is seasonal and intense. The initiative involves administering recommended antimalarial medications to eligible children during peak transmission periods, regardless of malaria symptoms.
The SMC campaign is part of a broader strategy that includes other malaria control measures such as the distribution of insecticide-treated mosquito nets, early diagnosis and treatment of malaria, environmental sanitation, and community health education initiatives.
