The Oyo State Government has declared its readiness to commence the 2025 Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs) mass distribution campaign across the State, as part of its ongoing efforts to reduce the burden of malaria among residents.

This assurance was given by the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, during the entry meeting held with key stakeholders and development partners to mark the official commencement of the campaign’s implementation phase, which begins today, June 16, 2025.

According to Dr. Ajetunmobi, strategic planning and preparation have been underway to ensure the smooth and effective distribution of ITNs to households across all Local Government Areas in Oyo State. She emphasized that the initiative represents a critical component of the State Government’s commitment to malaria prevention and control.

She further stated that the Ministry of Health, in strong collaboration with the State Primary Health Care Board, is committed to delivering a high-quality campaign that meets both technical standards and the expectations of the people. Together, both institutions are working diligently to ensure every aspect of the campaign, from planning to execution, is transparent, inclusive, and impactful.

During her remarks at the meeting, which included representatives from the Global Health Supply Chain (GHSC) – Procurement and Supply Management (PSM). Dr. Ajetunmobi confirmed that the State is fully prepared for the flag-off of the campaign scheduled for July 31, 2025. The distribution phase will take place from August 1 to August 7, 2025.

She also noted that the Ministry of Health had previously inaugurated the State ITN Campaign Coordination Committee during the planning phase. The committee comprises key stakeholders, including representatives from relevant Ministries, security agencies, Ward Development Committees (WDCs), religious and traditional leaders, and implementing partners. The committee has been actively engaged to ensure the successful execution of the campaign.

Also speaking at the meeting, the Campaign Manager for GHSC-PSM, Mrs. Patience Ochibe, disclosed that with support from USAID’s President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI), a total of 5.6 million nets have been procured, of which 4.9 million have already been delivered to Oyo State. She reiterated that while the State Government is leading the campaign, partners will continue to provide technical and logistical support for its implementation.

Mrs. Ochibe explained that beneficiaries are expected to present their net cards—issued during the household mobilization phase, at designated distribution points to collect their nets between August 1 and 7, 2025.

As part of preparations for the distribution, several key activities have been lined up for the implementation phase. These include training of household mobilization teams, media engagement sessions, advocacy visits, macro-level transportation of ITNs to LGAs, and the airing of public awareness messages and jingles across radio and television platforms.

The Oyo State Ministry of Health is pleased to remind the general public that the Free Health Mission—a flagship initiative of the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration—is still ongoing across the state, delivering life-saving care and relief to thousands of residents at no cost.

So far, the mission has successfully provided a wide range of healthcare services including free consultations, laboratory investigations, minor and major surgeries, dental care, eye care (including free glasses), and the distribution of essential drugs. Residents across multiple local government areas have continued to turn out in large numbers, expressing deep appreciation for the intervention.

Speaking on the impact of the ongoing programme, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, stated: “The response has been overwhelming, and we are humbled by the stories of lives being touched through this initiative. This is what people-centered Governance looks like. The Free Health Mission is a testament to Governor Seyi Makinde’s commitment to healthcare equity, and we are proud to continue driving it forward. I encourage all residents to take advantage of this opportunity while it lasts.”

Dr. Ajetunmobi also emphasized the importance of routine checkups and early medical intervention, noting that the health mission is not only providing treatment but also enhancing awareness and promoting preventive healthcare practices among the people.

The Ministry of Health wishes to inform the public that the team of medical experts is currently in Ogbomoso, where they will be covering the five local government areas in the zone from the 23rd to the 28th of May, 2025. Residents in Ogbomoso North, Ogbomoso South, Oriire, Ogo Oluwa, and Surulere LGAs are strongly encouraged to take advantage of this rare opportunity to access quality healthcare free of charge.

Flags off 2025 Omituntun Free Medical Mission

Against the backdrop of the recent disclosure by the Federal Government that it plans to build 8,800 Primary Healthcare Centres across the Country, Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has said that his Government is ready to share its template, which has seen it build functional Category 3 Primary Healthcare Centres in most of the 351 Electoral Wards of the State, with the Federal Government.

The Governor stated this on Tuesday, while launching the 2025 Omituntun Free Medical Mission at the Ibadan North-East Local Government Secretariat, Ibadan, noting that his Government decided to build the PHCs in each ward to make healthcare delivery more accessible to the people.
He maintained that since the template is working in Oyo State, it would also work for the Federal Government, adding that his Government would continue to focus on healthcare delivery so as to have a healthy population, which will in turn, help to push the boundaries of economic expansion and poverty reduction.

He said: “On the health sector, this Government will continue to focus on a healthy population and tackling poverty in the State.
“Only recently, the Vice-President said the Federal Government plans to build 8,800 Primary Healthcare Centres across the Country. Before the Federal Government, we started the renovation and equipment of functional PHC facilities in our 351 wards in the State.

“We are happy that we can give the federal level our template. The template has worked in Oyo State and I am assured it would work at the federal level.
“We have made a lot of progress in terms of commitment to primary healthcare. So, we have to keep the pressure on.
“I want to use this medium to thank everyone who has played their own part towards realising the programmes and policies of this administration in the health sector. I will like to thank Professor Temitope Alonge and Dr. Muideen Olatunji; they have done very well.
“I equally appreciate the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, the Chairman of Oyo State Hospital Management Board, Dr. Akin Fagbemi, and the Permanent Secretaries in the Ministry as well as healthcare practitioners too.”

According to the Governor, his Government has continued to deliver on its promises across the four pillars of education, health, security and economic expansion, with its policies and programmes attracting desired results.
Governor Makinde declared that the State Government has won the war against insecurity, adding that it would not sleep until residents can sleep with their two eyes closed.

He also cited the excellent performance recorded by students from the State in the recent Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE) and the Universal Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and the improved economy of the State, noting that these are also due to the right policies implemented by the Government to improve education and expand the economy.

Governor Makinde, who noted that the State Government had continued to stimulate the economy of the State by pushing about N24billion into the economy monthly through salaries and pensions and providing infrastructure for the private sector to thrive, said his Government would not relent.
The Governor averred that the Government was able to achieve the positive turnaround because it kept its head up and refused to shift blames, noting that he had remained focused on justifying the trust reposed in him by the people, rather than focusing on what past Governments did of failed to do.
Governor Makinde appreciated residents of Ibadan North-East Local Government for supporting his administration, just as he lauded Oyo State residents for doing the right things from the home setting, stating that the successes being achieved by his administration is also due to residents doing the right things.

He added: “I also appreciate the support and prayers of our people and doing what is right in our various homes. We can trace the stability we have been enjoying across Oyo State back to how you have been handling the homes. So, I thank you.

“You know I never occupied any political office until six years ago that I became the Governor. I see people comparing what some past Governments did not do and what other Governors did. Even as far back as 2018, I had no business with what a particular Government did not do, because the people know what any Government did or failed to do.
“You don’t need anybody to tell you if a particular Government performed or not.

“In 2019, we didn’t campaign based on what the past Governments did or did not do, but based on what we intended to do and you trusted us. We campaigned on four major pillars, including education, health, security and expansion of our economy.
“Today, we have won the war as far as security is concerned in the State. We will not sleep; we will continue to tweak the architecture until everybody can sleep with their two eyes closed.
“On education, all our initiatives are working because the WASSCE and UTME results of our children are encouraging and our children are being properly educated.

“Concerning the expansion of our economy, I say to people that, as of today, this government injects N24bn into the Oyo State economy every four weeks – that is from the government alone. And, we have created infrastructure to allow private businesses to thrive.”
Earlier in her welcome address, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ajetunmobi, appreciated the Governor for his unwavering commitment to improving healthcare access to the people of the State and for transforming the health sector through robust investments in health infrastructure, human resources, and strengthening the initiatives.

She mentioned that the Free Omituntun Medical Mission would follow a clustering model, with each cluster operating for three full days for effective delivery of comprehensive healthcare and also follow up post-operatively on surgical cases on patients.
She added that efforts are underway to facilitate the enrollment of the beneficiaries on the Oyo State Health Insurance Scheme under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) through the OYSHIA Gateway in order to ensure continuity of care beyond the outreach.
The commissioner encouraged all beneficiaries to take responsibility for their health by keeping their service codes and following through on post-care instructions.

Giving his goodwill message, the Chairman, Oyo State Hospital Management Board, Dr. Akin Fagbemi, thanked the Governor for the recent recruitment of medical personnel, which according to him, has led to the State being granted full accreditation for physiotherapy practice, which had been denied for 30 years.

The event had in attendance the Deputy Governor, Barr Bayo Lawal; former Deputy Governor, Barr. Hazeem Gbolarumi; Deputy Speaker, Rt Honourable Mohammed Fadeyi; former Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Senator Monsurat Sunmonu; Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi; and Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni mni.
Others were the Senior Executive Assistant to the Governor on General Duties, Chief Bayo Lawal; Commissioners, Permanent Secretaries; and chairman of Local Government Chairmen in Oyo State, Hon. Sikiru Sanda, among others.

Oyo State College of Nursing and Midwifery, Eleyele, Ibadan held its 27th convocation ceremony for conferment of certificates on Four Hundred and Sixty-nine (469) individuals on Tuesday.

The event, which was held within the college’s premises, witnessed the graduation of students who have successfully completed their programmes in Basic Nursing, Basic Midwifery, Community Nursing, and Community Midwifery

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Health and Chairman Governing Council, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi noted that the College has once again solidified its reputation for excellence in a remarkable achievement that underscores Nigeria’s growing academic prowess.

She said the institution is renowned for its high academic standards and discipline in churning out brilliant nursing professionals.

Dr. Ajetunmobi stated that the graduation ceremony marks a significant milestone in the new Nurses academic and professional journey, adding that the graduates were “trained in one of the most reputable Colleges of Nursing and Midwifery and have now joined a noble profession.”

She reiterated that the Oyo State government’s goal is to ensure there are enough excellent nurses to serve communities with dignity and skill.

The Wife of Alaafin of Oyo, Ayaba Abiwumi Olajumoke Owoade, who is an Alumnus of the College, charged the graduates to be agents of change in society.

She challenged them to set the pace, break barriers, and find solutions to things that hitherto had remained invisible, inaccessible, and unattainable in the rapidly changing world.

“Be a trailblazer in this noble career path you have chosen. Set the pace and break barriers. A trailblazer is a leader who summons followership by the inspiration of his life and action,“ she counselled.

The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Salihu Adelabu said the institution has imprinted her name in the training of professionals and gifted hands in healthcare services, which has positioned Nigeria among its peers as a factor to reckon with.

He applauded the courage of the management for upholding the standard and sustaining the legacy and visions of the founding fathers, commending the immense contributions of Governor Seyi Makinde, for attending to the needs of the institution promptly.

In her convocation address, the Provost, Dr. Gbonjubola Owolabi thanked the parents of the graduating students and investors for the confidence reposed in the college.

She listed the various achievements recorded by the college under her watch, adding that the college occupied an important position in the higher education development of the nation.

“The Oyo State College of Nursing and Midwifery remains an household name in the production of middle level manpower in the health sector, a crucial component of the mission to improve the healthcare services in Oyo State”, she said.

Speaking on the involvement of the Alumni Association, led by the global president, Pastor Gabriel Ajeigbe, the Provost stated “We value the Alumni for their roles in the success recorded by the College.”

The Provosts of some sister Colleges, including the Oyo State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Catholic College of Nursing, Oke-ofa, Federal Cooperatives College, Lead city University, Peri-Operative Nursing School, University College Hospital, Ibadan, among others also sent their goodwill messages on the convocation ceremony.

The convocation saw a total of 469 students graduate, including 31 Best graduating students, while 3 earned the Provost’s Awards for the best behaved student, the best in Practical and the best in Nutrition.

Adetunji Shukurat, a graduate of Basic Nursing who emerged as the Best graduate, gave the Valedictorian speech.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Commissioner for Information and Orientation,

Oyo State.

…pays counterpart funds for insecticide treated net campaign

The Oyo State Government has embarked on actions to end malaria in the State by operationalizing the malaria reference laboratory to guarantee accurate diagnoses, prompt and effective treatment for every suspected case.

The Commissioner for health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, disclosed this at the 2025 World Malaria Day, held at Akinyele Local Government Area, Secretariat, Moniya, Ibadan.

She explained that the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde has released counterpart funds for the forthcoming insecticide treated net campaign to every household for use of the net.

While stressing on the theme for this year’s celebration 2025 celebration “Malaria Ends with Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite” with the slogan “Stay Committed”, the commissioner revealed that the ministry of health has intensified the community’s sensitization, expanded rapid diagnostic testing and treatment access, trained frontline health workers, volunteers and enhanced surveillance and reporting systems through the partnership with Private Organizations, Religious bodies, ward development committees, National Malaria Elimination programme, PMI-S, GHSC-PSM, WHO, Rotary and the Malaria Consortium.

She stressed further that Malaria has remained a relentless adversary in Nigeria, claiming countless lives and undermining the well-being of our communities.

In her words: ‘Malaria poses a severe threat to public health, especially in areas where resources are scarce and access to care is limited. Children under five and pregnant women bear the greatest burden, as malaria not only robs individuals of their health and opportunity but also stalls socio-economic progress and diminishes quality of life across entire communities.”

“We must translate our commitments into action by implementing evidence-based policies, securing robust funding, engaging communities as active partners, and holding ourselves accountable for measurable results.”

In his remarks, the Chairman, Akinyele Local Government Area, Hon. Akinwale Akinyele, commended the efforts of the Ministry of Health for ensuring that people at the grassroots benefits from the free Malaria society project.

The Chairman, who was represented by the Head of Local Government Administration, Mrs. Olaronke Ige, said that the Akinyele Local Government has taken serious steps to make sure that people of the Local Government live in a healthier and conducive environment.

He encouraged residents of Akinyele to take malaria prevention seriously, urging them to properly use insecticide-treated nets and promptly visit appropriate healthcare facilities for diagnosis and treatment.

He commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his outstanding performance across all the sectors, particularly as it relates to achieving Goal 3 of the sustainable development goals.

In their separate remarks, the representatives of the World Health Organisation, Breakthrough Action Nigeria, US President Malaria Initiative for State PMIs, GHSC- PSM, WHO, Malaria Consortium and host of others lauded the Oyo State Government for creating an enabling environment for the actualization of partnership arrangements, assuring the Government of continuous collaboration and support towards achieving zero malaria in Oyo State.

The event was rounded off with free malaria testing, distribution of prevention materials, health education sessions, and a road walk to raise public awareness across communities.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Commissioner for Information and Orientation,

Oyo State.

The Oyo State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has reiterated its commitment to improving oral healthcare and promoting awareness on the importance of oral hygiene as part of overall well-being.

This was emphasized today during the celebration of World Oral Health Day 2025 at the Ministry of Health, where the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, delivered a keynote address.

Speaking through the Chairman, Oyo State Hospitals Management Board, Dr. Akin Fagbemi, on the theme of this year’s celebration, “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Mind,”

Dr. Ajetunmobi highlighted the critical role of oral health in fostering confidence, nutrition, and overall mental well-being.

She noted that oral health is not just about having white teeth but is deeply connected to general health, as poor oral hygiene can lead to infections, gum disease, and other complications that may impact vital organs.

The Commissioner further outlined the Oyo State Government’s efforts to enhance oral healthcare, including the provision of modern dental equipment at the Secretariat Clinic and plans to expand these facilities to other healthcare centers across the State.

These initiatives align with the broader commitment of the Government to improving access to quality healthcare services and preventive care.

Dr. Ajetunmobi also acknowledged the crucial role of healthcare professionals, including dentists, therapists, and dental technologists, in delivering oral healthcare services across hospitals, clinics, and community centers. She expressed appreciation for their dedication in treating patients and educating the public on preventive dental care.

Recognizing the importance of public-private partnerships, the Commissioner extended gratitude to Aspira Nigeria Limited for their continuous support in promoting oral health awareness in Oyo State. Their financial and material contributions have played a vital role in the success of this year’s celebration, further strengthening healthcare delivery in the State.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Ajetunmobi urged residents of Oyo State to adopt healthy oral hygiene practices, emphasizing that oral health is not a luxury but a necessity. She encouraged daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, regular flossing, maintaining a balanced diet, and visiting the dentist at least twice a year.

The Oyo State Government has announced plans to upgrade 66 Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs) across the State, with at least two facilities in each of the 33 Local Government Areas (LGAs) set for revitalization.

Addressing a critical stakeholders’ meeting yesterday, held at SDM Tavern Hotels and Suites in Ibadan, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi emphasized that the revitalization of PHCs is a fundamental step in improving healthcare delivery at the grassroots level.

She reiterated that the initiative would ensure the provision of essential amenities needed for effective primary healthcare services.

“Primary Healthcare Centers serve as the first point of contact for medical care, making their efficiency crucial to the overall healthcare system. The Government cannot do it alone; community involvement is key to sustaining these facilities. We urge stakeholders to take ownership and support this initiative for long-term success,” she stated.

Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of First Health Dynamic Synergy International Limited, Professor Temitope Alonge, explained that three key criteria were used in selecting the PHCs for upgrade in each LGA.

The first criteria is the patient load. The two PHCs serving the largest population in each LGA were prioritized. The second criteria is category 2 or 3 PHCs, while the third criteria is for facilities with an existing borehole and an alternative power source.

He noted that the project will involve both infrastructural improvements and provision of medical equipment such as installation of a 10KVA solar inverter system and boreholes to ensure uninterrupted power and water supply The medical equipment supply of essential medical devices will include autoclave machines with gas cylinders, among others. The upgrade will also include the implementation of a Drug Revolving Fund to ensure a steady supply of essential medicines. Security enhancement of the facilities will also be included in the upgrade.

Professor Alonge urged Ward Development Committees (WDCs) and PHC Coordinators to take responsibility for the facilities, stressing that they belong to the communities rather than the Primary Healthcare Board. He emphasized that a shift in mindset towards ownership and accountability would be crucial in maintaining improved centers.

He added that the same meeting would be replicated in other zones across the State for the WDC Chairmen and PHC Coordinators.

The Health care center upgrade stakeholders meeting scheduled for Tuesday, 4th March, and to end on Thursday, 6th March 2025.

The 3-day meeting will also focus on Sustainable Drug Revolving Funds, Security of the Primary Health Care Centers, Funding of Primary Health Care Services, Infection Control, Health and Safety in the PHCS, Nursing Process and Nursing Presence in the PHCS,
Documentation and Health Records, Electronic Medical Record System, Point of Care Testing (POCT) for Malaria, Hepatitis, HIV/Syphilis, Typhoid, etc., Handling Haemoglobinometers and Glucometers, Medication Dispensing and Autoclaving and Sterilization Techniques.

… As Gov. Makinde Commits N30 Million to Support Mass Deworming Campaign in the state

… As Oyo State Partners with Development Partners to Combat Neglected Tropical Diseases

Oyo State Government has disclosed that over 5 million residents would benefit from the 2024 mass deworming campaign and mass administration of medicines against river blindness and lymphatic filariasis in the State.

The commissioner for health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Adetumobi who disclosed this at a press conference to flag off the exercise, urged communities and residents to fully participate in the free health exercise which would be safely administered from house to house.

Dr Ajetumobi also explained that the free deworming exercise has been scheduled to end on the 30th November 2024, as over 700 trained health workers along with over 16,000 dedicated volunteers have been mobilized to administer the various medications and create public awareness to improve the overall health of the people.

She said that “In light of these pressing health issues, I urge everyone in our communities to participate actively in the ongoing free deworming campaign scheduled from November 21 to November 30, 2024.

“We have mobilized over 700 trained health workers along with more than 16,000 dedicated volunteers who will be actively participating in this year’s free deworming campaign targeting 5,243,979 at risk individuals aged 5 years and above across 31 local government areas in our State to safely administer these medicines from house-to house.

“Their commitment and hard work are vital as they will be responsible for administering medications and educating the public about these diseases.

“This extensive campaign is crucial for reducing the prevalence of these diseases and Improving the overall health of our communities.

” It is crucial for all eligible individuals- especially children aged 5 years and above to take these tablets as they play a vital role in controlling these diseases.

“The administration of these medications not only protects Individual health but also contributes significantly to community-wide efforts aimed at eliminating these diseases altogether.

“In alignment with the SDG’s Living No One Behind”, every eligible person shall be treated. No one should be discriminated against as a due to socioeconomic status, religion, ethnicity, sex, political affiliation or disability status in the course of this campaign.

“I encourage parents and guardians to ensure their children receive these treatments during the campaign period.

“Health workers will be available at designated centers throughout our communities to provide information and distribute medications safely.

“Let me, on behalf of the Oyo State Government express my heartfelt gratitude to several key partners who have made this Initiative possible: International donor partners, especially the Mectizan Donation Program and GlaxoSmithKline, for their generous provision of essential medicines for treating onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis, respectively.

“The World Health Organization (WHO), whose guidance and support have been Invaluable in securing the medicines.

“The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, which has provided critical resources and oversight to ensure that we meet our public health goals.

“The ChristoffelBlinden Mission International (CBM), which has offered both financial assistance and technical expertise throughout this process at this critical time of need supporting mass deworming and free hydrocele surgeries in the State.

“To my colleagues, LGA chairmen, traditional leaders and the good people of Oyo State who have committed to eliminating these diseases in our State, I appreciate your support.

“I would like to express profound appreciation to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde, for his exemplary leadership and for providing a conducive environment for partners to operate effectively.

“The collaborative efforts of these critical stakeholders exemplify a shared commitment to improving health outcomes in our State

“As a responsible Government, the Oyo State Ministry of Health will continue to provide the enabling environment and infrastructure to ensure smooth collaboration with supporting partners.

‘Together, we can make significant strides toward eliminating river blindness and lymphatic filariasis in Oyo State.

“Together, we can make a significant impact towards the elimination of river blindness and lymphatic filariasis in our region.

“Your participation in this deworming initiative is essential for safeguarding our health and improving our quality of life.

‘Let us work together towards a healthier future free from these debilitating diseases.

While acknowledging that Governor Seyi Makinde has provided about 30 million naira as counterpart funding with support from development partners in ensuring the success of the exercise, the commissioner for health expressed commitment to end most of the diseases identified as Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) by 2030.

In their goodwill messages, some of the development partners and representative from the Federal Government pledged their resolve to continue to work with the Oyo State Government in reduces the rate of NTDs in the State as well as its negative impact to the society.