In a bid to combat the HIV/AIDS epidemic, the Ogun Government on Wednesday unveiled a new strategic plan aimed at achieving zero infection and ensuring sustained treatment and care for people living with the disease.
Commissioner for Health, Dr Tomi Coker, stated this at the opening of a three-day stakeholders’ engagement meeting towards developing the State HIV/AIDS Strategic Plan for 2025-2027 in Abeokuta.
According to the Commissioner, the plan marks a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to tackle the epidemic and improve the health outcomes of its citizens.
Represented by the Special Adviser to Gov. Dapo Abiodun on Health, Dr Tayo Lawal, affirmed that the new development would play a significant role in the lives of the people living with HIV.
“It’s no longer news that donors are drastically withdrawing their support, unlike during the World Bank era when support was at its peak.
” We are all witnesses to the current state of HIV response in the country.
” However, the fight against the disease can not be won by the government alone; a multisectoral response to HIV must be fully activated.
” Every stakeholder must come together to fight this epidemic,” she said.
Earlier, the Executive Secretary, Ogun State Agency for the Control of AIDS, Dr Kehinde Fatungase, emphasised the need to develop a technical work plan that would guide the state’s efforts over the next two years.
Fatungase added that it was important to utilise available resources effectively, despite the existence of a National Strategic Plan.
