The Gombe State Government, in North-Eastern Nigeria, has launched its 2024 Malaria Prevention Campaign, aiming to distribute over 2.1 million insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) across the state’s 114 wards. Supported by the Global Fund Malaria Grant, the campaign seeks to protect families from malaria-carrying mosquitoes.
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, represented by his deputy, Dr. Manassah Daniel Jatau, announced the state’s approval of 565 health facilities and the deployment of more than 15,000 personnel to ensure the campaign’s success. Dr. Jatau urged residents to embrace the nets, emphasising their effectiveness in combating malaria despite any initial discomfort, which he dismissed as largely psychological.
He also pointed out the severe toll malaria takes on maternal and child health, citing the 2021 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, which identified malaria as a leading cause of death among these vulnerable groups. Additionally, the 2023 World Malaria Report notes that Nigeria remains one of 85 countries still at high risk for malaria.
Dr. Jatau emphasised the global push for malaria elimination, recognizing significant investments made by both local and international partners. He reiterated the state’s dedication to reducing the malaria burden through the Ministry of Health and the State Malaria Elimination Programme.
Further, he called for increased investment in local research, urging support for institutions like the Centre for African Medicinal Plants Research at North Eastern University, Gombe, to develop homegrown drugs and vaccines for malaria.
Dr. Muhammad Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, represented by Mary Esema, Deputy Director of Integrated Vector Management, highlighted the importance of ITNs and SMC in malaria prevention. He noted the use of innovative technologies like the Cash and Access Transfer (CAT) strategy and geospatial mapping to ensure efficient and transparent distribution.
Mrs. Asma’u Inuwa Yahaya, Net Ambassador and wife of the Gombe State Governor, represented by Ms. Asma’u Iganus, Commissioner of Women Affairs, reaffirmed her commitment to eliminating malaria among women and children.
Dr. Jatau expressed gratitude to partners like the Global Fund, National Malaria Elimination Programme, WHO, CRS, Society for Family Health (SFH), and Grid 3 for their support in making the campaign a success.