Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has renewed calls for intensified efforts to eradicate HIV/AIDS by 2030.
Speaking on Monday during an awareness walk organized by the Ondo State Agency for the Control of AIDS (ODSACA), the governor urged stakeholders to sustain the fight against the epidemic while supporting people living with the virus.
The awareness walk, part of the 2024 World AIDS Day commemoration, began at the Government House, Alagbaka, and concluded at the MKO Abiola Democracy Park, Akure. This year’s theme, “Take the Right Path: Sustain the HIV Response and Stop HIV among children to end AIDS in Nigeria by 2030,” underscored the urgency of tackling the disease through education, prevention, and community engagement.
Governor Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to ending HIV/AIDS, highlighting initiatives such as procuring HIV test kits for health facilities, monitoring family life and HIV education in schools, and disseminating prevention messages via radio and television.
“Our goal is zero new HIV infections by 2030. As a people-centred government, we will continue to implement policies and create environments that promote HIV prevention and provide care for those affected.”
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He also called for stronger partnerships among civil society organizations, non-governmental organizations, and religious groups to bolster the state’s efforts.
Dayo Adegbulu, Project Manager of ODSACA, echoed the governor’s sentiments, emphasising collective responsibility in combating the epidemic.
He warned against the stigmatisation of individuals living with HIV/AIDS, reminding citizens that Ondo State has enacted laws to protect against discrimination.
Adegbulu encouraged residents to report cases of stigmatisation, noting that a supportive community is crucial to achieving the state’s 2030 goals.
The event attracted diverse participants, including non-governmental organizations, civil society groups, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, students, and other stakeholders.
