Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has launched an ambitious campaign to eliminate malaria in the state, making malaria testing and treatment free across all government hospitals.
During the flag-off event in Benin City, attended by Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa and key health officials, Okpebholo pledged to reduce malaria-related deaths and provide preventive treatment kits to pregnant women.
“Just as Algeria, Ivory Coast, and Mauritius have defeated malaria, so will Edo State. This administration is committed to affordable healthcare services for everyone,” he declared.
The Governor promised that within two years, 95% of the state’s population would benefit from the initiative. He warned that any health worker caught charging patients for the free service would face severe consequences.
The Islamic Development Bank is partnering on the project, alongside the Federal Ministry of Health. Health Commissioner Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole described the initiative as “groundbreaking” and urged citizens to fully embrace the free testing and treatment services.
