By Aderogba George
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and stakeholders have called for a united effort to combat AIDS in rural communities.
Dr Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary, FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, made the call at the FCT Integrated Symposium to commemorate 2025 World AIDS Day in Abuja on Tuesday.
The event was organised by the FCT Health Secretariat with the sub-theme, “Innovation, Collaboration and Integration: Securing the future of HIV and the ATM Response in Nigeria”.
Fasawe, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr Babagana Adams, emphasised the need for active stakeholder participation to drive the campaign forward.
She said the theme, “Overcoming Disruptions: Sustaining Nigeria’s HIV Response”, provided an avenue to discuss and plan how to mobilise local resources to fill the gaps.
She said the initiative would help Nigerians living with HIV/AIDS not face additional challenges.
“We can’t succeed in sustaining the campaign against AIDS without going closer to the rural areas, the people that need the message more are in communities.
“We need to identify what we are doing well and areas that require improvement.
“Security challenges in the environment are a significant concern, particularly regarding access to certain localities. This is one of the major challenges we face.
“The government, however, is committed to ensuring access, affordability, and accessibility so that treatment success rates improve. Many individuals living with HIV face social challenges, including stigma and discrimination from others,” she said.
Also speaking, Director, FCT Department of Public Health, Dr Dan Gadzama, said that the department, through a First-Class Committee, operates a grassroots team that works closely with area councils.
He said the approach includes community interactions, discussions, and town hall meetings across the FCT.
“We educate people about HIV, including the availability of treatment and preventive services in all our facilities and area councils. Treatment is free.
“The First-Class Committee, operates a grassroots team that works closely with area councils. We mobilise communities in collaboration with people living with HIV and civil society organisations,” he said.
On his part, FCT Regional Manager, Institute of Neurology, Nigeria, Dr Tangkat Hosle, commended the Nigerian government for its commitment to the fight against AIDS.
He urged stakeholders to take ownership and contribute effectively to tackling HIV/AID.
“The focus on innovations and sustainability this year is very timely.
“It encourages all stakeholders, including healthcare facilities and government at all levels to take ownership and contribute effectively to the fight against HIV/AIDS.
“Sustainability ensures continuity of care and strengthens our collective response,” he said. (NAN)
Edited by Muhammad Lawal
