Edo State Government Declares Free Malaria Testing and Treatment, Renovates 100 Health Centres

The Edo State Government has approved free malaria testing and treatment in all government hospitals across the state, while also completing the renovation of 100 health centres in a major push to improve healthcare access.

The Special Adviser to Governor Monday Okpebholo on Health, Dr Andrew Iyamu, announced the policy on Wednesday in Benin City during the state government’s monthly briefing. He said the governor approved the measure to ensure residents can access malaria care without financial constraints.

“Any government hospital you go, you don’t pay for malaria testing and treatment. It is free. The arrangement is for two years, after two years, the policy will be reviewed,” Iyamu said.

The renovation works cover 65 Primary Health Centres spread across the 18 local government areas and 35 Secondary Health Centres, according to officials.

Iyamu also disclosed that the administration has recruited about 1,000 health workers to strengthen staffing levels across public facilities. He added that the Eneghede General Hospital, which had been moribund for 19 years, has been renovated, along with ongoing work on doctors’ quarters.

The government said the interventions are part of a broader effort to tackle substandard health facilities, quackery and fake drugs while bringing quality care closer to residents, particularly in underserved communities.