Oyo state distributes over 5 million mosquito nets to combat malaria

The Oyo State Government has launched the mass distribution of over five million insecticide-treated mosquito nets (ITNs) across all 33 Local Government Areas in a bid to reduce the prevalence of malaria, especially among vulnerable populations.

The official flag-off event was held at Idi-Ogungun Primary Health Care Centre, Agodi Gate, Ibadan North LGA, where the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to public health and malaria prevention.

“This initiative underscores the government’s dedication to safeguarding the health of pregnant women, children under five, and all residents of Oyo State,” she said.

Misuse of Mosquito Nets Is a Punishable Offense

Dr. Ajetunmobi cautioned residents against misusing the distributed mosquito nets for purposes such as fishing, gardening, window coverings, or street hawking.

“These mosquito nets are not just items; they are life-saving tools. When used properly, they form a protective barrier against one of the deadliest diseases in Africa,” she emphasized.

She warned that hoarding, reselling, or diverting the nets will attract legal consequences, as such actions compromise the program’s health benefits and violate the trust of donors and government efforts.

The Commissioner encouraged households, especially mothers and pregnant women, to form the habit of sleeping under the nets nightly, noting that modern ITNs are made with breathable, heat-resistant materials that promote comfort.

“Using these nets consistently can reduce malaria transmission, decrease hospital visits, and ultimately save lives,” she added.

The net distribution exercise runs from August 1 to 7, 2025, and will be carried out through fixed-point delivery sites across communities. An electronic tracking system has been deployed to ensure transparency, accountability, and that no household is left out.

Dr. Ajetunmobi concluded by urging full community participation and vigilance, noting that post-distribution mop-up activities will follow to reach missed households.