Nigerian Firm, Partners Reach 1,000 in Malaria Push

Over 1,000 Nigerians just received the tools and knowledge they need to protect their families from malaria, thanks to a nationwide health campaign that brought together business, government, and community leaders.

Lafarge Africa, a leading building solutions company, partnered with the Society for Family Health, Lagos State Health officials, and Leadway Health to deliver malaria prevention services across multiple locations for World Malaria Day 2026. The campaign distributed insecticide-treated nets and provided hands-on education about environmental hygiene and early treatment.

Dr. Kemi Albert-Udoh, Occupational Health Coordinator at Lafarge Africa, explained why companies need to step up alongside healthcare professionals. Malaria continues to affect millions of Nigerians every year, with pregnant women and children facing the greatest risk.

"Through collective effort and sustained intervention, we can significantly reduce its impact," Albert-Udoh said. "We are committed to playing our part by supporting prevention, early diagnosis and effective management, ensuring that fewer people fall ill and more lives are protected."

This year's campaign theme, "Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can. Now We Must," emphasizes an important truth: the tools to defeat malaria already exist. What's needed now is consistent action and commitment from every corner of society.

Gabriel Pollyn, Head of Sustainability and Sponsorships at Lafarge Africa, said the outreach demonstrates how preventive healthcare and strategic partnerships can build stronger, healthier communities for the long term.

The Ripple Effect

The campaign's impact extends far beyond the 1,000 direct participants. Beneficiary Mudzu Ummusalma said the awareness session changed how she thinks about health in her home, teaching her how malaria spreads and why maintaining a clean environment matters.

She plans to share what she learned with neighbors and relatives, multiplying the campaign's reach. Adekunle Onikoyi, Deputy Chief of Staff for Ikorodu Local Government Area, praised how community-focused initiatives strengthen healthcare delivery while promoting awareness that can save lives.

When businesses, healthcare workers, and local governments work together, entire communities gain the knowledge and resources to protect themselves from preventable diseases.