By Moses Emorinken, Abuja
There are new technologies and innovations that can control breeding of mosquitoes, Pest Control Association of Nigeria (PECAN), has said.
It stressed that indiscriminate and illegal use of chemicals cause environmental pollution and damage the body.
The association called on the Federal Government to engage the private sector in the deployment of new technologies to control breeding of mosquitoes, while focusing on environmental measures and policies to control mosquitoes.
Speaking at a conference on World Mosquito Day, National President, Olakunle Williams, said: “Mosquito-borne diseases pose threats to public health. Private sector’s involvement in mosquito control has gained attention due to its potential to bring innovation, efficiency, and resources to combat diseases
“The private sector possesses advanced technologies and research capabilities leading to development of novel mosquito control methods. This includes innovative approaches, such as genetically modified mosquitoes or precision-targeted insecticides.
“Private companies can allocate financial and human resources to these efforts, potentially accelerating development and deployment of interventions on a larger scale.
“Private sector practices, such as streamlined supply chains and efficient management, can enhance control measures.
Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON), Yakubu Baba, represented by Director of Department of Registration, Ethics and Standards, Issa Adamu, added: “We need to build capacity and structure of delivery of malaria control. Malaria is attributable to many factors, but since the focus is mosquitoes, a gap in the control of malaria is the neglect of the vector.