Table of Contents
Abstract. 2
CHAPTER ONE.. 5
INTRODUCTION.. 5
1.1 Background to the Study. 5
1.2 Statement of the Problem... 6
1.3 Objectives of the Study. 8
1.4 Research Questions. 8
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 8
1.6 Significance of the Study. 9
1.7 Scope of the Study. 9
1.8 Limitations of the Study. 10
1.9 Organization of the Study. 10
CHAPTER TWO.. 13
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 13
2.1 Introduction.. 13
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 13
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 15
2.4 Empirical Review.. 18
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 20
CHAPTER THREE.. 20
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY.. 20
INTRODUCTION.. 20
RESEARCH DESIGN.. 21
POPULATION AND SAMPLING.. 21
DATA COLLECTION METHODS.. 21
INSTRUMENTATION.. 22
DATA ANALYSIS.. 22
ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS.. 23
CONCLUSION.. 23
4.1 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 25
4.2 TABLES BASED ON RESEARCH QUESTIONS.. 28
4.2.1 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one:. 28
4.4 Discussion of Findings. 40
CHAPTER FIVE.. 42
SUMMARY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION.. 42
5.1 Summary of Findings. 42
5.2 CONCLUSION.. 42
5.3 RECOMMENDATIONS.. 43
REFERENCES.. 44
Research Questionnaire. 47
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Malaria remains a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, posing substantial burdens on both the population's health and the country's economy. As one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality, particularly among children under five years old and pregnant women, the effective prevention and control of malaria are crucial for sustainable development in the region. This paper aims to critically evaluate the various strategies implemented to combat malaria in Nigeria, assessing their effectiveness and identifying areas for improvement.
Since Nigeria adopted the National Malaria Control Program (NMCP) in 2004, several interventions have been deployed, including the distribution of insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs), indoor residual spraying (IRS), intermittent preventive treatment for pregnant women (IPTp), and prompt diagnosis and treatment using artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT). However, despite these efforts, malaria continues to pose a significant health burden in the country. This paper will examine the reasons behind the persistent challenges in malaria control and assess the impact of these interventions on reducing malaria prevalence and mortality rates.
To provide a comprehensive analysis, this evaluation will draw upon a range of scholarly sources and empirical studies. Notable references include the works of Okell et al. (2017), who conducted a systematic review on the effectiveness of malaria control interventions in sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria. Additionally, findings from the Malaria Indicator Surveys (MIS) conducted periodically by the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP) will be analyzed to understand trends in malaria prevalence and the coverage of prevention and control interventions. Other relevant studies, such as those by Oresanya et al. (2018) and Ajumobi et al. (2020), will be referenced to gain insights into specific challenges and successes of malaria control efforts in Nigeria.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The persistent burden of malaria in Nigeria despite substantial investments in prevention and control strategies highlights a pressing issue that necessitates rigorous evaluation. Despite the implementation of interventions such as insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs), indoor residual spraying (IRS), and prompt diagnosis and treatment, malaria remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in the country. Furthermore, challenges such as inadequate healthcare infrastructure, limited access to healthcare services in remote areas, insecticide resistance, and socioeconomic factors contribute to the complexity of malaria control efforts in Nigeria. Understanding these multifaceted challenges and assessing the effectiveness of existing strategies is crucial for informing evidence-based decision-making and guiding future interventions towards achieving sustainable malaria control and elimination goals in Nigeria.
Numerous studies have examined the effectiveness of malaria prevention and control strategies in Nigeria, providing valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities for improvement. For instance, a study by Oresanya et al. (2018) highlighted implementation bottlenecks hindering malaria elimination efforts in Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of addressing operational challenges alongside programmatic interventions. Additionally, findings from the Malaria Indicator Surveys (MIS) conducted periodically by the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP) offer comprehensive data on malaria prevalence, coverage of interventions, and associated factors, providing a basis for evaluating the impact of control strategies. By synthesizing evidence from such studies, this research seeks to identify gaps and barriers in malaria prevention and control efforts in Nigeria, ultimately contributing to the development of more effective and sustainable strategies to combat this endemic disease.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Malaria Prevention and Control Strategies in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- 1. To assess the impact of Long-Lasting Insecticide Nets LLINs on malaria incidence
- 2. To evaluate the accessibility and effectiveness of Artemisinin-based Combination Therapies ACTs for malaria treatment
- To analyze the effectiveness of larvicide application programs in reducing mosquito breeding grounds
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- Has the distribution and utilization of LLINs in Nigerian households been associated with a decrease in malaria incidence rates over the past 5 years?
- How readily available are ACTs in public and private healthcare facilities across different regions of Nigeria?
- Have larvicide application programs in targeted areas led to a measurable decrease in mosquito breeding sites?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no statistical significant relationship between Malaria Prevention and Control Strategies in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Public Health sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Uyo LGA. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
