The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Friday launched the Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITN) Replacement Mass Distribution Campaign aimed at tackling malaria across the state.
Representing the governor at the event in Asaba was his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, while the Deputy Chief of Staff, Sir Christopher Osakwe, delivered the governor’s address.
In his remarks, Governor Oborevwori highlighted the significance of the campaign as a major step in the ongoing efforts to combat malaria and improve public health in Delta State.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to the M.O.R.E Agenda, which emphasizes consolidation, continuity, and improved healthcare delivery.
“Malaria control is a critical part of strengthening our health systems,” the governor stated. “Our goal is not just to control malaria but to ultimately eliminate it.”
He acknowledged malaria as a global health threat, noting that while many Western countries eradicated the disease decades ago, sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Nigeria, continues to face a heavy burden.
“Malaria remains the most common and preventable health issue in Nigeria, yet it still claims countless lives, especially among children under five and pregnant women,” he said.
The governor cited data showing that Nigeria accounts for around 25% of Africa’s malaria burden. While national prevalence dropped to 27% in 2015 from 42% in 2010, the country still sees approximately 110 million clinical cases annually, leading to 30% of child deaths and 11% of maternal deaths each year.
He noted that Delta State’s malaria prevalence stands at 10%—a positive development but still one that demands further action.
Governor Oborevwori praised other African nations like Egypt, Zanzibar, and Rwanda for their strides in malaria elimination, saying their progress serves as motivation.
He also stressed that malaria affects everyone, regardless of social status, and poses the greatest risk to vulnerable groups like children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals.
The governor commended his wife, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, who serves as the State Net Ambassador, for her strong advocacy and commitment to healthcare initiatives.
He also expressed gratitude to the Federal Government, the Delta State Ministry of Health, the State Primary Health Care Development Agency, traditional and religious leaders, security agencies, market leaders, and international partners including the Global Fund, Society for Family Health (SFH), and Catholic Relief Services (CRS).
Also speaking at the event, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate—represented by Mr. Raphael Onyinlo—reaffirmed that malaria continues to be a pressing health challenge in Nigeria, which accounts for 27% of the global malaria burden and 31% of malaria-related deaths worldwide.
Delta State’s Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, called the campaign a renewed call to action, emphasizing the importance of ITNs in protecting citizens from malaria.
Dr. Nnenna Ogbulafor, National Coordinator of the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP), represented by Dr. Esema Mary, described the campaign as a crucial part of the federal government and partners’ mission to shield the most vulnerable Nigerians from malaria by promoting ownership and consistent use of ITNs.
