Coordinator Lauds Anti-malaria Fight In Bauchi

The national coordinator, National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP), Dr. Nnenna Ogbulafor, has commended the Bauchi State government for its sustained efforts on malaria prevention and control, as the state commenced the 2026 mass distribution of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) across its 20 local government areas.
She gave the commendation at the flag-off ceremony of the campaign in Bauchi on Saturday.

Ogbulafor, who was represented by Mary Eseme, said more than 12.7 million insecticide-treated nets had been distributed in Bauchi State since 2010.

She disclosed that the 2026 campaign targets the distribution of an additional 4.8 million nets to households across the state, describing the commitment of the state government as commendable, particularly against the backdrop of global funding constraints affecting malaria programmes.

According to her, the dedication of health workers, community and religious leaders, as well as campaign personnel, had contributed significantly to achieving widespread coverage and reducing the burden of malaria in communities.

She said the 2026 campaign also marked a major innovation with the deployment of I-Pulongo, a homegrown digital solution designed to support household mobilisation.

Ogbulafor explained that the technology would improve data quality, accountability and operational efficiency, while enabling real-time decision-making during the campaign.

She added that the experience would provide valuable lessons for future data-driven malaria prevention campaigns across the country.

The NMEP coordinator appreciated development partners, including the United States Government, the Global Health Supply Chain-Procurement and Supply Management (GHSC-PSM), the World Health Organisation (WHO), Roll Back Malaria Partnership, traditional rulers and community leaders for their continued support.