Minna: Niger government, in partnership with the Society for Family Health (SFH), has initiated the distribution of 3.2 million Insecticide Treated Nets (ITNs) to households across 25 local governments in the state.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the distribution commenced in Lapai Local Government Area on Monday, marking the beginning of a significant public health campaign.
The initiative is also backed by the Malaria Consortium, National Malaria Elimination Programme, and Catholic Relief Services. Queency Ajiero, Coordinator for the Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention and ITN campaign in Lapai, reported that 2,047 bales of nets had been delivered to 45 distribution points for local collection. Meanwhile, in Rijau Local Government, Simon Zimro, another campaign coordinator, stated that 3,339 bales of ITNs will be distributed across 67 points in 11 wards following household mobilisation efforts.
In Mokwa Local Government, campaign coordinator Solomon Baakpe noted that 5,761 bales of nets are being tra
nsported to 95 distribution points, despite challenges such as difficult terrain and inaccessible riverine communities. Baakpe highlighted the logistical difficulties, including two-hour water journeys to some destinations, and the associated high transportation costs.
In Paikoro Local Government, Marianne Abioyo, another campaign coordinator, confirmed that 2,010 bales of nets had been dispatched to 10 wards, with distribution set to start on Tuesday. She urged households with E-token slips to collect their nets from their designated hubs.