Ado Local Government Chairman Officially Flags Off 2025 Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention Intervention
The Chairman of Ado Local Government Area, Engr. Sunny Oche, has officially launched the 2025 Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention (SMC) campaign for children. Engr. Oche pledged his full support to ensure every eligible child in the LGA receives the preventative medication.
The launch took place at the Council Secretariat in Igumale, following a visit from a team representing the National Healthcare Board’s SMC program in Benue State. The team is in Ado LGA to administer the malaria prevention drugs to children as part of this year’s National Immunization Plus Days (NIPDs) exercise.
Mrs. Esther Ikor, the program’s Mobilization Officer, accompanied by Hon. Mathias Ogbala, Supervisory Councilor for Health, briefed Engr. Oche on the SMC program’s objectives. Mrs. Ikor explained that SMC uses preventative medication to protect children at high risk of contracting malaria during peak transmission seasons. This method, she emphasized, does not treat existing infections but rather safeguards children in high-transmission areas where other malaria control methods may be limited. The ultimate goal, she stated, is to reduce the burden of malaria, particularly severe cases, among young children.
The SMC campaign led by Mr. John Oche in Ado LGA, involves health workers visiting homes, schools, markets, and other public places to administer the medication. The aim is to reach every eligible child to achieve herd immunity and maintain Nigeria’s malaria eradication goals.
Engr. Oche expressed his gratitude to the Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, for his commitment to healthcare access in rural areas. He also commended the Primary Healthcare system, which he considers vital in preventing maternal and infant mortality. He assured the SMC team of the local government’s full cooperation to ensure a smooth and successful campaign.
Innocent Igelle cLMiH,Principal Private Secretary to the Chairman, Ado Local Govt Council reported.
