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A Non-Governmental Organisation, AIDS Healthcare Foundation, has called for the prioritisation of condoms by couples to stem the spread of HIV/AIDS in the country.
In a statement issued and made available to journalists in Makurdi, Benue State capital on Saturday, the Advocacy and Marketing Manager of AHF, Steve Aborisade, highlighted the preparation of the organisation to commemorative this year’s World AIDS Day, scheduled to be held on Dec. 1, 2024, said that the event would hold in seven states.
The states, according to him include; Abuja, Anambra, Benue, Cross River, Kogi, Nasarawa and Akwa Ibom
Aborishade said that comprehensive sexuality education shall be the thrust of the gathering while the organisation would also provide free AHF-branded condoms with detailed condom education to the people.
He said, “The commemoration is to signify that ‘It’s Not Over’ in the fight against HIV/AIDS while raising the needed awareness, promoting prevention, testing, and treatment, and rallying support to all those affected by HIV/AIDS in Nigeria and globally.
‘’In Nigeria, AHF is particularly reinforcing the need to embrace Comprehensive age-appropriate Sexuality Education, to empower adolescents and young people with skills and knowledge to negotiate safer sexual behaviours, with the population being the most at risk to STIs including HIV/AIDS, said Dr Echey Ijezie, AHF Nigeria, Country Program Director (CPD)
“On this World AIDS Day, we emphasize the urgent need to enhance HIV prevention efforts, particularly for young women and adolescent girls who are at significant risk, with around 4,000 new HIV infections recorded globally each week,” stated Dr. Penninah Iutung, AHF Africa Bureau Chief.
“With the introduction of innovative prevention tools—like the Dapivirine vaginal ring to Lenacapvir, PrEP, and PEP—our ability to halt new transmissions has never been greater.
Aborishade further said, “Nonetheless, we must also prioritize condoms, which are both effective and affordable yet still under-promoted.
The Advocacy and Marketing Manager, however, emphasised increased funding for HIV/AIDS, community-led initiatives, and favourable policies to fight stigma and discrimination.
He added that the above were crucial for expanding access to prevention and treatment, especially for at-risk groups and in the global effort to control AIDS.”
“World AIDS Day serves as a vital platform for HIV/AIDS advocates to acknowledge the progress made, remember those we have lost to AIDS-related illnesses and those who carry on the fight, and call on governments worldwide to commit the necessary resources and political support to end HIV/AIDS. On this World AIDS Day, we’re reminded: It’s Not Over,” Aborishade said.
