Health
Gov Sule inaugurates distribution of over 2milion free insecticide treated nets in Nasarawa
By Abel Daniel, Lafia
Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa state has inaugurated the distribution of over two million insecticide Treated Nets(ITN) to families across the state.
Governor Sule while delivering his speech at the Flagg off ceremony indicated that his administration is determined to ensure a hundred percent usage of musquito treated nets by 2023.
Sule noted that in 2013 the percentage of usage of treated nets was 11percent but now he said it has risen to 55percent.
He expressed hope that by 2023 the state would attain 100percent usage.
According to governor Sule the ITN will be distributed in 866 distribution points across the state.
He urged beneficiaries,, particularly women to ensure proper usage of the net for their household and not to dump it or sell the treated nets.
The state commissioner of health, pharmacist Baba Yahaya in his good will message said that malaria is one of the leading causes of maternal and child morbidities in the country.
“Despite its preventability, malaria disease has over burdens the already fragile health system as it exerts a severe socioeconomic burden on the nation”, Yahaya said.
The health commissioner regretted that households in Nigeria spend approximately N480billion annually as the disease continues to pose great threat to the health and socio-economic wellbeing of citizens.
Mr. Yahaya noted however that the proper usage of the net consistently and correctly is necessary for protection against mosquitoes that spread the disease.
He urged those who have already collected the pre distribution card to visit the distribution centers nearest to them for collection.
Yahaya also warned users to adhere strictly to instructions that would be given to the beneficiaries at collection points before usage to avoid complication.
The commissioner commended the donor partners, the USAID family, National Malaria Elimination program for their support.