…Household Registration Begins June 1, Distribution Holds June 20–26
The Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Health, in partnership with the World Health Organization and other development partners, has concluded arrangements for the distribution of insecticide-treated mosquito nets to households across the 31 local government areas of the state as part of intensified efforts to curb malaria.
The state government said household registration for the exercise will commence on June 1, while the statewide distribution of the mosquito nets has been fixed for June 20 to June 26.
Speaking during a press briefing in Uyo on Monday, health officials disclosed that about 3.9 million long-lasting insecticide-treated mosquito nets would be distributed free of charge to residents across the state.
The exercise, according to the officials, is targeted at achieving universal household coverage and reducing malaria-related illnesses and deaths, especially among children and pregnant women regarded as the most vulnerable groups.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem Emmanuel John, described the initiative as a major public health intervention aimed at safeguarding the wellbeing of residents.
He noted that malaria remains one of the leading health challenges in the state and stressed that the distribution of treated mosquito nets would significantly reduce malaria transmission and fatalities.
According to him, the programme aligns with global efforts toward malaria elimination and improved healthcare delivery at the grassroots.
He explained that sensitization campaigns and community mobilization had already commenced across the state to ensure active participation and proper use of the nets by residents.
“Malaria continues to pose serious health risks, particularly to pregnant women and children. This intervention is designed to ensure that every household has access to treated mosquito nets as a preventive measure,” he said.
Health experts have consistently maintained that insecticide-treated mosquito nets remain one of the most effective preventive tools against malaria transmission, with the World Health Organization advocating universal access to long-lasting insecticidal nets in malaria-prone communities.
The commissioner urged residents to cooperate with health workers during the registration and distribution exercise and ensure consistent use of the nets for maximum protection.
Reacting to the development, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Comr Nsibiet John , commended the Ministry of Health and its partners for what he described as a timely intervention.
He assured that the union would support awareness campaigns aimed at educating residents on the importance of proper use of the mosquito nets.
“We appreciate the Ministry of Health and its partners for this life-saving initiative. The NUJ will continue to take the message to every nook and cranny of Akwa Ibom to ensure residents understand the importance of proper use of the treated mosquito nets,” he stated.
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