FG hosts candlelight memorial for HIV/AIDS victims
By Justina Auta
The Federal Government, in partnership with stakeholders, hosted a candlelight memorial to honour those lost to HIV/AIDS-related causes.
Dr Temitope Ilori, Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), on Monday stated that the event aimed to raise awareness about the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV (PMTCT).
It is targeted at strengthening community and national dedication to eradicating AIDS.
“We want to ensure a generation free of HIV and achieve the global target of ending HIV as an epidemic by 2030.
“This gathering is both a commemoration and a tribute to those we’ve lost in the battle against HIV,” she said.
Ilori expressed concern over the estimated 15,000 children who died from AIDS-related illnesses in 2023, calling the figure alarming.
“This is deeply troubling, but together, we can reverse this trend and create a brighter future”.
She stressed the importance of ending stigma against people living with HIV, urging them to access care, adhere to treatment, and continue medication to suppress their viral load.
She also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ending the epidemic, noting increased domestic resource mobilisation and funding for HIV/AIDS programmes.
Mr Abdulkadir Ibrahim, National Coordinator of the Network of People Living with HIV in Nigeria (NEPWHAN), noted the need to celebrate individuals and organisations dedicated to combating the epidemic.
Represented by Nicholas Ugbenyen, NEPWHAN’s National Secretary, Ibrahim advocated for policy changes, increased funding, and innovative approaches to eliminate HIV in children and end AIDS by 2030.
“We call on all stakeholders to support policies and funding that prioritise prevention and treatment of HIV in children.
“Sustainable practices, community advocacy, and grassroots engagement are essential to addressing the epidemic and ensuring children’s voices are heard”.
He further emphasised the need for accessible PMTCT services, including antenatal care, testing, and treatment for pregnant women living with HIV, to prevent the transmission of the virus to their children.
Dr Esther Hindi, National Coordinator of the Association of Women Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria (ASHWAN), pledged to continue raising awareness about PMTCT efforts across the country.
Other stakeholders, including Ms Funmi Adesanya from the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and Dr Leo Zekeng, UNAIDS Country Director, also reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Nigeria’s fight to end AIDS. (NAN) www.nannews.ng
Edited by Abienwense Moru
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