In a renewed effort to curb the spread of malaria, the Oyo State Government has commenced the mass distribution of more than five million insecticide-treated mosquito nets across all 33 local government areas of the state.
The distribution campaign, officially launched at the Idi-Ogungun Primary Health Centre, Agodi Gate in Ibadan North Local Government, is scheduled to run from August 1 to August 7, 2025.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, described the initiative as a critical step in safeguarding the health of vulnerable populations, particularly pregnant women and children under the age of five.
“These nets are not just household items — they are life-saving tools,” Ajetunmobi said during the flag-off ceremony. “Used consistently and properly, insecticide-treated nets are one of the most effective ways to prevent malaria, which remains one of the leading causes of illness and death in our communities.”
Dr. Ajetunmobi also warned against the misuse of the distributed nets, stressing that they are strictly meant for malaria prevention. “We have seen cases where people use these nets for fishing, covering windows, or even for commercial purposes. Let me be clear — anyone caught hoarding, selling, or misusing these nets will face legal sanctions,” she stated.
To ensure the efficiency and transparency of the campaign, the government has adopted fixed-point distribution centers and electronic tracking systems.
Speaking further, the Health Commissioner urged households to embrace nightly use of the nets. “We appeal especially to mothers and pregnant women to ensure their children sleep inside these nets every night. It could prevent illness, reduce hospital visits, and ultimately save lives.”
She assured residents that mop-up operations would follow the week-long distribution to ensure that no household is left out.
Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, in a statement released on Sunday, emphasized that the campaign underscores Governor Seyi Makinde’s commitment to improving public health in the state.
“These efforts demonstrate the administration’s proactive approach to health care. The partnership with donor agencies has made this massive outreach possible, and we encourage everyone to take full advantage of it,” Oyelade stated.
Residents are urged to collect the free nets from designated centers in their communities and follow health guidelines on their proper use.
