- The Yobe State Agency for Control of AIDS faces funding challenges, with a monthly allocation of just N25,000 deemed inadequate for operations
- HIV cases have decreased in Nasarawa State, but stigma and limited healthcare access remain critical issues requiring urgent attention and action
According to Dr. Jibrin Adamu Damazal, the executive secretary of the Yobe State Agency for Control of AIDS (YOSACA), the agency faces significant funding challenges.
He revealed that the agency’s monthly allocation is just N25,000, which he called “grossly inadequate” for its operations.
Dr. Damazal made this known during the 2024 World AIDS Day event at the Government House in Damaturu. He stressed that better funding is essential to expand programs for vulnerable groups like children, women, and adolescents.
More financial support would also help sustain the state’s HIV response initiatives.
Deputy Governor Idi Barde Gubana, Representing Governor Mai Mala Buni, reassured attendees of the state government’s dedication to fighting HIV.
In Nasarawa State, the number of people living with HIV/AIDS has dropped significantly. At least 2,934 individuals are currently affected across the state’s 13 local government areas.
This is a decline from 4,222 cases in 2023 and 6,614 in 2022, as shared by the Executive Director of the Nasarawa State AIDS Control Agency (NASACA), Dr. Ruth Nabe-Bello.
Dr. Nabe-Bello highlighted this during the 2024 World AIDS Day celebration in Lafia, the state capital. However, she raised concerns about ongoing stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV. Limited healthcare access, especially for key groups, remains a critical issue requiring urgent attention.
These developments underscore the importance of increased support for HIV control agencies to ensure comprehensive care and prevention measures.