The Diaspora Solution Group Nigeria (DSGN) has announced a major new scientific initiative, the Malaria Attenuation Project, which aims to eradicate malaria in Nigeria by deploying advanced genetic research to neutralize the disease’s primary carrier, the female Anopheles mosquito.
The groundbreaking project is set for an official launch on December 20, 2025, at the Aloha Hotel & Resort in Osogbo, Osun State, and marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s strategy against the endemic disease.
The research, titled “Research to Curb Female Anopheles Mosquito Breeding”, is led by a multidisciplinary team of Nigerian scientists and global experts, including Dr. Emmanuel O. Emenike and Dr. Olof Olsson.
The core of the initiative involves a cellular and molecular correction approach using precise CRISPR techniques in a controlled laboratory setting. The goal is to genetically modify the mosquitoes to limit their population growth and prevent their ability to transmit the malaria parasite, Plasmodium.
“Our goal is to harness the power of genetics to address one of Africa’s most persistent public health challenges. This research represents a major step toward malaria elimination using safe, science-driven methods tailored for Nigeria”, said Dr. Emenike.
Dr. Emenike further stressed that the project is designed to be geographic and specie-specific, ensuring the modifications do not cause harm to the environment or non-target species. He emphasized that the initiative is set to position Nigeria as a leader in the global fight to end malaria across the African continent.
The Malaria Attenuation Project is a national-scale initiative funded and executed through a powerful new alliance with local partners, including Sickle Cell Warriors and Troptions Unity Token.
By focusing on strengthening local scientific capacity and fostering robust collaboration between Nigerian experts abroad and researchers at home, the project reinforces DSGN’s commitment to long-term sustainable solutions. The initiative is also fully aligned with Nigeria’s National Malaria Elimination Program (NMEP).
The launch event is scheduled to run from 10am to 2pm on 20th December, 2025, and is expected to draw policymakers, public health officials, and leading scientists.