ASHRAAF ISLAMIC FOUNDATION Commemorating year 2026 World Malaria Day with National Malaria Elimination Program (NMEP)
Contribution was made from Ashraaf Islamic Foundation, Alfa Isiaq Burhaanudeen Isa, a member of Da’wah Ashraaf Islamic Foundation, spoke about proper hygiene and how it relates in the Islamic perspective, and how it could help prevent and eliminate malaria.
Goodwill messages was passed from (Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako) The Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare on World Malaria Day emphasize that malaria remains a major public health emergency in Nigeria, despite significant progress. Nigeria accounts for a large share of global malaria cases and deaths, making elimination an urgent national priority. While malaria prevalence has dropped significantly from about 42% in 2010 to 15% in 2025 progress is not yet victory.
(Dr. Nnenna Ogbulafor) National Coordinator NMEP, presented a documentary on “The journey of malaria elimination in Nigeria over 26 years has been very progressive” Nigeria has made steady and structured progress in malaria control through policy development, treatment improvements, preventive interventions, and partnerships. While significant gains have been achieved, continued innovation, funding, and coordinated action are essential to achieve full malaria elimination. most states are now classified as having moderate or low transmission, which reflects successful interventions, but continued effort is needed. Then organizations and other NGOs gave goodwill message as well .
In a decisive move toward a malaria-free nation, the Ashraaf Islamic Foundation joined the global community and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to commemorate World Malaria Day. The high-level advocacy event, held at the Rockview Hotel (Royale), Abuja, centered on the urgent theme: “Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can, Now We Must.”
The event was hosted by Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, alongside Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, the Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare.
Providing strategic leadership for the initiative was Dr. Nnenna Ogbulafor, National Coordinator of the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP) and Chairman of the 2026 World Malaria Day Planning Committee. The gathering brought together esteemed medical practitioners and policymakers dedicated to eradicating the scourge of malaria in Nigeria.
Ashraaf Islamic Foundation’s Commitment
The Foundation’s delegation was led by its Chairman and Founder, Imam Dr. Sharafudeen Abdulsalam Aliagan. The organization’s presence underscored the vital role of faith-based organizations in public health advocacy. Key members in attendance included:
Mr. Abdulwasiu, Director of Finance and Administration.
Barrister Abdulmaleek Hassan Zarouq, Deputy Director of Legal Affairs.
Hajia Rihaanat, Secretary Ashraaf Islamic Foundation
Imam Dr. Ishāq Burhabuddeen Ishaq, Member of the Da’wah Committee.
Ustaz Kamaldeen and Mr. Yunus Abdulrasheed, Foundation members.
Faith Meets Science: A Call to Hygiene
A highlight of the event was a presentation by Dr. Ishāq Burhanuddeen Ishaq, who explored the intersections of faith and health. Drawing from the teachings and principles of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), he emphasized the spiritual and physical obligation of maintaining personal hygiene and environmental cleanliness as a primary defense against disease.
A Collective Responsibility
The event served as a powerful platform for advocacy, emphasizing that the eradication of malaria is not solely a medical challenge but a communal one. As the theme suggests, the tools for elimination are within reach, but success requires the active participation of every citizen.
The Ashraaf Islamic Foundation remains committed to supporting national health goals, fostering a cleaner environment, and ensuring the well-being of our communities.
