MLS.Ibrahim Olasunkanmi Qoseem
As the global community marks World Malaria Day 2025, one of Kwara State’s foremost Medical Laboratory Scientist, Dr. Kolawole Ogunwale (PhD), has called for renewed focus on malaria diagnosis and youth mobilization as key strategies in eliminating malaria from Nigeria, especially in underserved communities.
Dr. Ogunwale, who serves as the Chairman of the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN), Kwara State Chapter, renowned for his contributions to medical education, diagnostics, and professional mentorship, made the call on Thursday, April 25, 2025, during a media engagement commemorating the day.
He emphasized the need for “smart diagnosis” powered by competent laboratories, data-driven responses, and active collaboration between academia and community structures.
“To eliminate malaria, we must stop treating symptoms and start testing with precision.
Our diagnostic systems need to be accessible, reliable, and led by professionals with a commitment to excellence,” he stated.
According to Dr. Ogunwale, Nigeria’s progress in tackling malaria must now go beyond treated nets and chemoprevention; it must include a deliberate strategy to integrate youth from tertiary health institutions into the malaria elimination plan.
“We cannot afford to ignore the untapped power of our youths in colleges of health and medical sciences across Kwara and Nigeria.
They are trained, community-rooted, and eager to lead. With proper mobilization, they can drive grassroots awareness and accurate diagnosis in ways we’ve never imagined,” he said.
Dr. Ogunwale emphasized the importance of “smart diagnosis”, the laboratory confirmed testing and data-driven response, warning against over-reliance on presumptive treatment which, he said, continues to fuel drug resistance and undermine malaria control efforts.
He commended the Kwara State Government for its investments in seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC), mass distribution of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), and strategic collaborations with both national and international partners.
These initiatives, he noted, have begun to yield measurable results.
However, he stressed that true sustainability lies in involving emerging scientists as key actors not just beneficiaries in public health campaigns.
“These students are already equipped with foundational knowledge of disease prevention and control. By integrating them into community health programs, they will be empowered and be reinforced in our health system’s reach.
Malaria can end with us—but only if we lead with wisdom, science, and inclusion.” he added.