Reps Advocate Free Malaria Treatment In Public Hospitals

By Oduyemi Odumade

The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to provide Free malaria treatment and drugs for Nigerians in Public Hospitals.

This was sequel to a motion of urgent public importance by member from Abia State, Mr. Amoebi Ogah at plenary.

The lawmaker said there has been several reported cases of malaria which has resulted to the death of many Nigerians particularly children below the age of five.

According to Mr. Ogah, the average cost of treating malaria is about five to ten thousand naira, which many Nigerians cannot afford thereby resorting to herbal treatment which has caused complications and even death.

The lawmaker suggested that part of funds from subsidy removal should be used for free malaria treatment in Public Hospitals.

He said that just like HIV and Tuberculosis, malaria treatment should also be made free.

The Deputy Speaker, Mr. Benjamin Kalu who presided over the plenary referred the matter to the committees on Malaria, HIV, Tuberculosis and Health services.

The Deputy Speaker also asked the committees to look into the issue of approved loan for the procurement of mosquito nets to help fight malaria in Nigeria.

Edited By Grace Namiji