The National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP) has distributed more than 320 million Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs) and 450 million doses of Sulfadoxine Pyrimethamine and Amodiaquine (SPAQ) to children under five since 2009. Dr. Nnenna Ogbulafor, NMEP National Coordinator, announced this during the launch of the 2025 mass distribution campaign in Minna.
The campaign, in partnership with Global Fund, Catholic Relief Services, Malaria Consortium, and Society for Family Health, aims to reduce malaria prevalence and under-five mortality rates nationwide. Niger State alone has received over 11.4 million nets since 2009.
Dr. Ibrahim Idris, Director of Public Health in Niger, explained that malaria remains a significant challenge with a prevalence rate of 21%. This year, 3.2 million nets will be distributed and 1.5 million children will receive monthly malaria preventive treatments.
The campaign hopes to ensure universal coverage with at least 80% net usage in all communities. Officials urge residents to use the nets properly, emphasizing they are for sleeping, not protecting farm produce.
Leave a comment