Malaria now rare in Lagos —Commissioner

Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, says malaria has become a rare disease in the state, with recent data showing that only about 3–4% of fevers are caused by malaria.

Speaking on Channels Television on Saturday, Abayomi cited extensive laboratory investigations conducted by top scientists, noting that Lagos is close to eliminating the disease. Updated figures from the state put malaria prevalence at just 1.3 percent.

He urged residents to question malaria diagnoses and insist on proper test results, warning that many people are being wrongly treated for “malaria-typhoid”—a diagnosis he described as a “double jeopardy” and “a sledgehammer.”

According to him, many patients actually suffer from viral infections that mimic malaria symptoms and require rest, not aggressive treatments such as injections, IV fluids, anti-malarials, and antibiotics.

“Lagosians want to be diagnosed with malaria because they want injections or IV fluids, but often, what they have is a viral illness,” he said.

Abayomi added that while malaria is now uncommon in Lagos, neighbouring states like Ogun and Oyo may still need homegrown solutions to address higher transmission levels.

The state government attributes its progress to improved testing, better case management, and digital surveillance systems across public and private health facilities.

Authorities continue to warn against presumptive treatment, saying misdiagnosis leads to unnecessary medication and delays proper care.