By Joyce Obamiyi
Residents of Kogi State have been urged to take proactive steps in safeguarding their health by prioritising malaria prevention and seeking prompt medical care when symptoms arise.
This call was made during a courtesy visit by the Kogi State Malaria Elimination Programme (SMEP) team to Radio Nigeria Prime FM.
The Programme Manager, Kogi State Malaria Elimination Programme,SMEP, Doctor. Ake Stephen Oluwarotimi, described the programme as a unit under the Public Health Department of the State Ministry of Health, responsible for coordinating malaria elimination efforts across Kogi State.
He noted that activities marking World Malaria Day serve as a key platform for raising awareness on preventive measures, including the use of insecticide-treated mosquito nets, maintaining clean surroundings, and avoiding outdoor exposure during peak mosquito activity periods, rather than relying solely on medication.
Doctor Oluwarotimi also revealed that the programme is collaborating with Palmcrease Healthcare Initiative to implement the ISDP Live and Livelihood Fund project.
He explained that although the state applied for financial support for malaria sensitisation programmes in 2018, approval was only granted last year.
According to him, the impact of the intervention is already being felt, with about 515 public healthcare facilities across the state now offering free malaria testing and treatment since last year.
He further disclosed that free mosquito nets will be distributed to residents as part of activities to commemorate World Malaria Day.
In her remarks, the Community System Structure Manager, Mrs. Lucy Ackanyon, highlighted planned awareness campaigns, including road walks and press briefings, aimed at deepening public understanding of malaria prevention.
She emphasised the importance of reaching grassroots communities through religious centres such as churches and mosques, noting that malaria remains a preventable disease responsible for numerous deaths, particularly among pregnant women and children.
Responding, the General Manager of Radio Nigeria Prime FM, Mr. Alfa Yakub, commended the team for the visit and reaffirmed the station’s commitment to public enlightenment.
Mr Yakub who stated that the organisation remains dedicated to its mandate of uplifting the people and uniting the nation, pledged continued support for malaria awareness and free medical outreach initiatives.
He, however, called for proper monitoring of mosquito net distribution to prevent diversion and commercialisation.
The general manager also stressed the need for sustained sensitisation efforts, especially in rural communities, to ensure wider reach and lasting impact.
Edited by Ajifa Ainoko
About The Author
