NIMSA North Central Region concludes Annual Regional Convention
By Bishop Aturu
Nigerian Medical Students’ Association (NiMSA) North Central Region, has over the weekend concluded her 2021 Annual Regional Convention with the Theme: Politics and Security in Nigeria; Healthcare implications and Sub-theme: Climate Change & Malaria; What we need to know.
The event which lasted for 3 days at Jos, Plateau State, was very impactful as it involved series of educating lectures and also members of the Association participating in a Mega Rally/Health awareness on Good Climate Behaviour and Malaria.
In a statement issued by the Regional Coordinator; Elukpo Jeremiah, revealed that data is emerging that supports the link between the transmission of malaria and climate change, and some scientists have suggested that the world will experience elevated transmission of the disease without significant action taken against climate change.
According to the statement, malaria distribution will not be hugely affected by increasing temperatures, but that other diseases carried by mosquitoes, such as Dengue fever, may be more worrisome, hence the need for the awareness and solution.
Jeremiah further stressed that changes in temperature, humidity, rainfall, and other climatic conditions have an impact on important factors that dictate the transmission of malaria, such as the lifespan of the mosquito and the development of malaria parasites in the insect.
This year’s Convention, in his little way ventured into massive sensitization on the streets of Jos and online space, distribution of free mosquito nets, writing materials and other souvenirs to the less privileged.
The statement also thanked the sponsor of the Convention, CEO of Tazan Saahibfatiu Onimisi Foundation (TSOF); Hon. Tazan Onimisi, whose foundation he disclosed amongst other humanitarian services in 2021 supported the fight against malaria across Local Government Areas in Kogi State and some part of the country.
Tazan’s effort towards this year’s Convention the statement revealed is very crucial as it contributes in promoting good climate behaviour, while also linking it with the prevention of Malaria.
In a phone conversation with newsmen, Hon. Tazan Onimisi, stressed that the global health challenges in the world was what prompted his foundation joining the fight against malaria.
While stressing that malaria still exists as a very immediate threat that causes huge numbers of preventable deaths every year, he pleaded that Government alone cannot do the fight alone, while calling on meaningful Nigerians to complement government efforts in creating a healthy society for all; especially for those at the grassroots.