Prof. Chike Ogbonna Reveals: Nigeria Hemorrhages N75.5 Billion on Malaria Treatment

In a recent interview with Professor Chike Ogbonna, a distinguished figure in Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering at the University of Jos, the alarming cost of malaria treatment in Nigeria was brought to light. The revelation disclosed that the government allocates a substantial N75.5 billion for each cycle of malaria treatment.

This revelation surfaces amidst a growing call for intensified efforts to stimulate the local production of Artemisia Annua, a plant abundantly rich in artemisinin—a vital component in malaria treatment. The potential of cultivating and processing Artemisia Annua locally presents an opportunity to diminish the nation’s reliance on imports for medicinal purposes.

Nigeria shoulders a significant burden of malaria, contributing to approximately 40% of global malaria cases. Ogbonna underscored the pressing need for unwavering commitment from both the government and relevant stakeholders to confront this substantial health menace.

Professor Ogbonna highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating, “Malaria is a number one killer disease; every 30 seconds, a child or a pregnant woman drops dead due to complications from malaria, and the rest of the world is not concerned because it is mainly the problem of the black man.” He shed light on the financial interests of pharmaceutical companies in the ongoing battle against malaria, asserting that some entities prioritize profits over eradicating the disease.

The professor passionately called upon the government and stakeholders to unite in the fight against malaria, emphasizing the critical step of ensuring the affordability of malaria drugs for all Nigerians. In addition to advocating for unity, he asserted that collective efforts could conquer any disease.

Ogbonna drew attention to the absence of locally produced drugs in Nigeria, emphasizing the necessity to transition towards domestic production. This shift, he argued, could save substantial financial resources currently earmarked for malaria treatment. Redirecting these funds, according to Ogbonna, could fuel progress in other critical sectors such as education, industry, and overall economic growth.

While the Nigerian government initiated the cultivation of Artemisia Annua in 2020, the overarching goal of achieving self-sufficiency in its production is yet to be realized. In a noteworthy development, Infostride News has reported that the Nigerian pharmaceutical company Emzor was granted €14 million to establish its first active pharmaceutical ingredient plant. This facility aims to produce high-quality and affordable anti-malarial drugs, contributing to the broader initiative of fostering indigenous pharmaceutical capabilities.

The infusion of funds into Emzor for its pharmaceutical endeavors signals a positive stride towards enhancing the local production of anti-malarial drugs. The establishment of an active pharmaceutical ingredient plant aligns with the broader vision of reducing dependence on foreign sources for essential medications.

As Infostride News underscores, this financial backing reflects a concerted effort to bolster domestic pharmaceutical capabilities, potentially paving the way for increased accessibility to affordable anti-malarial drugs within the country. Such initiatives not only address the immediate health concerns posed by malaria but also contribute to the broader socioeconomic advancement by promoting self-sufficiency and fostering growth in the pharmaceutical sector.

In conclusion, Professor Chike Ogbonna’s revelations about the exorbitant cost of malaria treatment in Nigeria underscore the urgency for a comprehensive strategy to combat this prevalent health threat. The cultivation of Artemisia Annua and the establishment of local pharmaceutical facilities, as highlighted by Infostride News, present promising avenues for reducing dependence on imports and enhancing the affordability and accessibility of malaria treatment within the nation. Collaborative efforts between the government, pharmaceutical companies, and stakeholders are crucial in realizing these goals and channeling resources towards multifaceted development.