Malaria: Oyo Distributes 5m Insecticide-treated Nets

Oyo State government has commenced the distribution of over five million insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) across the state’s 33 local government areas to curb the spread of malaria.

At the flag-off held at Idi-ogungun Primary Healthcare Centre, Agodi Gate, Ibadan North LGA, the commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, said the initiative reflected the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable groups, especially pregnant women and children under five.

The commissioner cautioned against using mosquito nets for non-health purposes such as fishing, gardening, window covers, or commercial displays.

Ajetunmobi urged residents to make use of the nets properly and nightly habits, noting that the latest generation of nets is made with breathable material.

Lightweight materials that do not retain heat when used in well-ventilated rooms.

She warned that diverting or hoarding the nets was a punishable offence under the law.

Ajetunmobi appealed to mothers and pregnant women to embrace the daily habit of tucking their children inside the nets every night, saying this will prevent illness, hospital visits, and even save lives.

She assured me that mop-up activities would follow the official distribution period to ensure no household was left out.

“These nets are not just commodities; they are life-saving tools. When used correctly and consistently, ITNs are an effective barrier against malaria, one of the deadliest diseases affecting our people.”

“Let me be clear: anyone caught hoarding or selling these nets, or using them for anything other than malaria prevention, will face legal consequences”, she warned.

“These nets are provided free by the government and donor agencies to protect health, not for personal gain”, she said.

The distribution, scheduled for August 1 to 7, 2025, is conducted through fixed-point delivery sites. Electronic tracking systems are deployed to ensure transparency, accountability, and full coverage.