The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) has disclosed that Nasarawa State in Nigeria has an HIV prevalence rate of 2.0 percent, meaning roughly 23,306 people are living with HIV and need treatment. This information was shared by Dr. Emmanuel Bichi, the state coordinator for AHF, during a sensitization campaign and health talk in Keffi, held to commemorate World AIDS Day on December 1. World AIDS Day aims to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, promote global solidarity, and review progress in combating the epidemic.
The AHF sensitization campaign is a key component of Nigeria’s fight against HIV/AIDS, focusing on awareness, prevention, testing, and care while showing solidarity with those affected. Dr. Bichi noted that the state government and AHF are working closely to address various HIV/AIDS challenges. AHF Medical Director Dr. Emmanuel Nwabueze added that the foundation is intensifying its efforts to eliminate HIV/AIDS by 2030, including treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and the promotion of general wellness.
To expand access to services, AHF is establishing a wellness center in Nasarawa State, following successful centers in Benue and Abuja. These centers will provide seamless, accessible STI services to the public, and the foundation will also offer free condom education and distribution. Senior Advocacy and Marketing Manager Steve Aborisade emphasized AHF’s commitment to partnering with relevant stakeholders to address STIs nationwide. Likewise, Dogara Dajuma, Director of Primary Health Care in Keffi, highlighted the need for continuous collaboration, noting that the PHC is intensifying campaigns across various localities to combat HIV/AIDS.
The revelation of Nasarawa State’s HIV prevalence rate and the combined efforts of AHF and the state government underscore the importance of sustained awareness, prevention, and treatment initiatives. As the global community strives to eliminate HIV/AIDS by 2030, collaboration, education, and access to care remain essential.
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