TheCable

The house of representatives committee on HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria, says it will take necessary measures to ensure that malaria is reduced to the nearest minimum in the country.

Speaking with journalists on Monday in Abuja, Amobi Ogah, chairman of the committee, said lawmakers would ensure the implementation of legislation aimed at eradicating malaria in the country.

Ogah said where such legislations are not adequate, the committee will work to provide the needed amendment to improve the laws.

The lawmaker, who represents the Isiuakwato/Umunneochi federal constituency of Abia, said the committee would work with relevant stakeholders to ensure that monies budgeted for the fight against malaria are utilised for the purpose allocated.

“The house committee on HIV, AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria control is not unmindful of the challenges being faced by Nigerians in the fight against these ailments, especially in the fight against malaria in the country which appears to defy solutions,” he said.

“The committee will work with relevant stakeholders in the fight against malaria in ensuring that monies budgeted for are used for the purpose for which they are made.

“The prevalence of fake malaria drugs will be looked into to avoid further deaths being recorded.

“The committee will partner with USAID, WHO, UNAID, Gates Foundation, the federal ministry of health, the Global Fund for Malaria Control, Society for Family Health among other stakeholders, in ensuring that malaria is eradicated in the country or reduced to the barest minimum.

“We will also ensure adequate implementation of legislations geared towards the eradication of malaria in the country. Where such legislations are not adequate, we will work to provide the needed amendment to such existing legislations for the general good of the Nigerian people.”

The lawmaker also expressed concerns over the spread of HIV, saying the committee ensure that relevant agencies increase sensitisation on the disease through its oversight functions.

“We will work to strengthen the fight against HIV/AIDS in the country,” he said.

“We will ensure that they (agencies) are strengthened through legislations and funding to be in a better position to deliver on their mandate, while also ensuring accountability and probity.”