Malaria Prevention Boost as Osun Commences Distribution of 2.9 Million Nets

The Osun State Government has commenced the distribution of nearly 2.9 million insecticide-treated mosquito nets as part of a renewed effort to reduce malaria infections across the state.

The campaign is being implemented in partnership with the National Malaria Elimination Programme, Catholic Relief Services, the Society for Family Health and other health organisations, with financial support from the Global Fund Malaria initiative.

Speaking in Osogbo, campaign Logistics Adviser Simeon Ibvori said a total of 2,897,443 mosquito nets would be distributed to households throughout the state. The exercise is intended to replace nets previously distributed in 2023 and ensure wider protection against malaria.

According to Ibvori, the nets are currently being transported from state storage facilities to local government distribution centres ahead of the rollout. He noted that special attention would be given to rural communities where malaria transmission remains particularly high.

He explained that the goal of the campaign is to provide one mosquito net for every two people, helping families reduce their exposure to mosquito bites and malaria infection.

Residents were encouraged to collect the free nets once distribution begins and to use them properly. Health officials advised beneficiaries to air the nets under shade for 24 hours before use.

Ibvori also urged community members to cooperate with health workers overseeing the exercise, noting that distribution teams had received adequate training to carry out the programme effectively.

The state's malaria elimination programme manager, Dr. Olufemi Oroge, said insecticide-treated nets remain one of the most effective tools for preventing malaria. He added that the protective lifespan of the nets ranges from one to four years, depending on usage and maintenance.

Health authorities hope the latest campaign will strengthen malaria prevention efforts and contribute to reducing the disease burden across Osun State, particularly among children and other vulnerable groups.

The distribution exercise forms part of broader national and international efforts to curb malaria, which remains one of the leading public health challenges in Nigeria.

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