In a major public health push, the Delta State Ministry of Health, in collaboration with key non-governmental partners, has announced plans to distribute 3.1 million insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) to households across the state as part of the 2025 Malaria Elimination Campaign.
The initiative is being spearheaded by the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP), Catholic Relief Services (CRS), and the Society for Family Health (SFH), with the aim of reducing malaria prevalence and mortality through wide-scale net coverage.
The announcement was made during a one-day media orientation programme held at the State Secretariat in Asaba, where health officials emphasized the critical role of journalists in mobilizing public support and disseminating accurate information about the campaign.
Permanent Secretary of the Delta State Ministry of Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Philomena Okeowo, stressed the importance of media engagement.
“The media cannot be left out of this fight. You are the voice of the people. Tell every Deltan what we are doing to protect their health,” she said.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. (Mrs) Julie Aniah, Programme Manager for Malaria in Delta State, outlined the objectives of the campaign.
She explained that the orientation seeks to equip journalists with the knowledge and tools necessary to promote ITN usage, reorient public understanding of malaria prevention, and foster a united front against the disease.
However, Dr. Aniah raised concerns over political interference and non-adherence to recruitment guidelines at local levels, which she warned could derail the distribution process and weaken the campaign’s impact.
The Director of the mass ITNs distribution campaign in Delta, Mr. Daniel Gbue, emphasized that the goal is for every household in Delta to receive at least one treated net.
“These nets are scientifically proven to protect individuals from malaria by preventing mosquito bites. They also ensure peaceful, undisturbed sleep,” he said.
In a goodwill message, Mrs. Joke Oadarrme, a representative of the NMEP from the Federal Ministry of Health, reiterated the need for collaboration.
“We need your support now more than ever. This campaign is not targeting hospitals, markets, or schools, it is strictly for household distribution. Together, we can win this fight against malaria,” she affirmed.
The 2025 campaign will prioritize awareness, education, and transparency in its implementation, with media stakeholders playing a pivotal role in driving public engagement across the state.
