Background

Malaria remains a leading public health problem in Nigeria despite the implementation of several preventive interventions. Insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) are among the most effective malaria prevention strategies; however, utilization rates often remain lower than ownership rates. This study assessed household utilization of insecticide-treated nets for malaria prevention in Ijebu North II Local Government Area, Ogun State, Nigeria.

Methods

A community-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 348 households in Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State. A multistage sampling technique was employed for participant selection. Data were collected using a validated semi-structured questionnaire with a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.86. Descriptive and inferential statistics were analyzed using SPSS version 21. Statistical significance was established at p < 0.05.

Results

The study revealed that 98.9% of households owned at least one insecticide-treated net, while 80.7% obtained the nets through government distribution programmes. Knowledge regarding malaria prevention was high (93.0%), and utilization prevalence was 69.3%. Perceived susceptibility and severity of malaria was 79.2%, perceived benefits of ITN utilization was 79.4%, and perceived barriers was 69.9%. No statistically significant relationship was observed between gender and utilization of ITNs (rs = 0.063, p = 0.24), knowledge and utilization (r = -0.099, p = 0.06), or household ownership and utilization (rs = 0.014, p = 0.79).

Conclusion

Household ownership and utilization of insecticide-treated nets were high among respondents. Government-supported distribution programmes remain important in sustaining ITN ownership. Community-based health education and behavioural interventions should be strengthened to improve consistent utilization and address barriers to ITN use.