FG Distributes 5,000 Treated Mosquito Nets in Imo to Curb Maternal, Infant Mortality

The Federal Government has begun the distribution of 5,000 long-lasting insecticide-treated mosquito nets to households in rural communities across Imo State as part of efforts to reduce maternal and infant mortality caused by malaria.

The initiative, launched under the National Health Fellow Programme, took place on Friday at Mgbidi in Oru West Local Government Area of the state.

Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, officials from the Federal Ministry of Health said the distribution exercise aligns with the government’s commitment to improving public health outcomes and safeguarding vulnerable populations, particularly pregnant women and children under five.

According to them, malaria remains one of the leading causes of death among women and children in Nigeria, and the treated nets are designed to provide effective protection against mosquito bites, especially in rural areas where access to health facilities is limited.

A representative of the ministry noted that the programme would also include community sensitisation campaigns to educate residents on the proper use and maintenance of the mosquito nets.

“This initiative is not just about distributing nets; it is about promoting behavioural change to ensure families use them consistently and correctly,” the official said.

Local government officials and community leaders in attendance commended the federal government for the gesture, describing it as a timely intervention that would go a long way in reducing malaria-related illnesses and deaths.

They also urged residents to take ownership of the initiative by ensuring that every household member, especially pregnant women and children, sleeps under the treated nets every night.

The National Health Fellow Programme is part of the federal government’s broader health outreach designed to strengthen primary healthcare delivery and enhance disease prevention efforts at the grassroots level.