The Benue State Government held a special Jumat prayer on Friday to remember residents who have died from HIV/AIDS. According to DAILY POST, Christian churches throughout the state will conduct similar memorial services on Sunday. This prayer event is part of the activities for the 2024 World AIDS Day, with the state government expressing optimism about the ongoing enhancements in its HIV response. Currently, there are 194,274 people receiving treatment in the 23 Local Government Areas. Dr. Paul Ogwuche, the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, shared this information during an interview in Makurdi after meeting with stakeholders and implementation partners. Ogwuche stated that the state is working hard to lower its current prevalence rate of 4.3 percent, highlighting that Benue has improved significantly from the previous rate of 15.4 percent. He emphasized the ministry’s commitment to eradicating AIDS as a public health issue. He also noted that the 2024 global theme, “Overcoming Disruptions, Sustaining Nigeria’s HIV Response,” reflects the situation in Benue, stating that the state is dedicated to ensuring broad access to HIV prevention, treatment, and care despite challenges. “In Benue, we have collaborated with our partners to guarantee ongoing access to life-saving antiretroviral medications at all HIV treatment centers,” the commissioner mentioned. Ogwuche also highlighted significant achievements made by the Benue State Agency for the Control of AIDS (BENSACA), including expanded testing services, universal treatment access, and advancements in the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) program. He stated that Benue has expanded its efforts in providing different prevention options. “In Benue State, we are dedicated to making sure that everyone living with HIV reaches viral suppression by adhering to their treatment consistently.” “This is our plan for eliminating AIDS as a public health issue,” he stated. Meanwhile, Dr. Terna Akpiyo, the acting Executive Secretary of BENSACA, reassured patients that the phased reduction of foreign aid will not interfere with their access to treatment. He mentioned that the state and its partners have started a transition plan to ensure a continuous supply of antiretroviral medication. “We are not facing a shortage of ARVs.” A transition plan has been established, anticipating that external funding will end by 2030. Patients have been included in the insurance plan; now the only remaining step is to complete the enrollment process to guarantee their ongoing access to medications.
