Anopheles stephensi, traditionally an Asian vector of malaria, has recently emerged as a significant threat in sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria. Unlike other malaria vectors, An. stephensi thrives in urban settings, exploiting artificial water sources, which facilitates its survival even in arid conditions. This adaptability raises public health concerns, as Nigeria, already facing a high malaria burden, now risks increased transmission in densely populated urban areas. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the biology, ecology, and vectorial capacity of An. stephensi, alongside an assessment of its impact on malaria transmission dynamics in Nigeria. Notably, An. stephensi thrives in urban environments due to its preference for artificial water containers, raising the risk of malaria in densely populated cities. This paper outlines the challenges this vector poses to existing malaria control measures, which were primarily designed for rural settings, and examines An. stephensi’s resistance to traditional insecticides. Proposed strategies to address this emerging threat include enhanced surveillance, integrated vector management (IVM), genetic control methods, and community-based interventions. Without proactive intervention, An. stephensi may complicate Nigeria’s malaria eradication efforts, necessitating coordinated, adaptive responses to limit its impact on public health.
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