Oyo State launches free mosquito net distribution across all LGAs to curb malaria, focusing on children and pregnant women. Misuse will attract legal action

The Oyo State Government has launched the mass distribution of over five million insecticide-treated mosquito nets across all 33 local government areas as part of its effort to combat malaria and protect vulnerable residents.

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The campaign was officially flagged off at Idi-Ogungun Primary Health Care Centre, Agodi Gate, in Ibadan North LGA, according to a Sunday statement by Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade.

Speaking at the ceremony, Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, said the free mosquito net campaign is aimed especially at pregnant women and children under five, who are most at risk of malaria.

“These nets are not just commodities; they are life-saving tools,” she emphasized

“When used correctly and consistently, ITNs serve as an effective barrier against malaria, one of the deadliest diseases affecting our people.”

Ajetunmobi cautioned against non-health-related uses of the nets, including fishing, window coverings, or display materials, stressing that misuse, hoarding, or illegal sale of the nets will attract legal consequences.

She added that the treated nets are designed to be breathable and heat-resistant when used in well-ventilated rooms, and encouraged mothers and caregivers to tuck children into nets nightly to reduce malaria-related illness and death.

The campaign is scheduled to run from August 1 to August 7, 2025, with fixed-point delivery sites set up in each local government area.

To ensure transparency and full coverage, the distribution process will be supported by electronic tracking systems.

Dr. Ajetunmobi assured that mop-up activities would follow the official distribution to reach households that may have missed the initial rollout.

“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.

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The initiative is being carried out with the support of donor agencies and public health partners, reinforcing the state’s commitment to malaria control and health equity.