NEPWHAN urges Gombe to sustain campaigns on HIV control

The Network of People Living with HIV and AIDS in Nigeria (NEPWHAN) has urged the Gombe state government and other partners to sustain success achieved by the Centre for Integrated Health Programs (CIHP) in HIV control in the state. The call was made by the state chairman of NEPWHAN, Mr Hassan Sylvester, during the CIHP’s […]

The Network of People Living with HIV and AIDS in Nigeria (NEPWHAN) has urged the Gombe state government and other partners to sustain success achieved by the Centre for Integrated Health Programs (CIHP) in HIV control in the state.

The call was made by the state chairman of NEPWHAN, Mr Hassan Sylvester, during the CIHP’s closing-out ceremony in Gombe.

He said the CIHP, in collaboration with the state government and other stakeholders, has made significant progress in combating the spread and treatment of HIV victims in the state in the last 17 years.

Mr Sylvester urged the state government not to become complacent and take over the fight against HIV in order to sustain the achievements made so far.

“We know that sustainability is a major challenge for us in Nigeria, but it is crucial to continue supporting initiatives that have proven effective in reducing the prevalence of HIV and improving the quality of life for individuals living with the virus in the state.

“With CHIP’s exit from the state, we expect the government to stay focused on sustaining the successes of CIHP and investing in further HIV and the fight against HIV/AIDS,” he said.

According to him, the government should continue to prioritise the provision of drugs and consumables as well as testing kits and intensify awareness and prevention campaigns.

Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of CIHP, Dr Bolanle Oyeledun, said the centre has conducted over three million HIV/AIDS screening, treatment, and counselling services in the last 17 years.

She said over two million people and one million pregnant women were screened under the programme, which was designed to achieve epidemic control and improve the health status of the people in the state.

“CIHP has been a cornerstone in Gombe state’s fight against HIV/AIDS, testing over three million people and helping 26,000 HIV-positive individuals receive life-saving treatment.

“Thousands of lives have been saved, and the spread of HIV has been drastically reduced. Gombe is now one of the three states in Nigeria to have achieved epidemic control,” he said.

According to her, over one million pregnant women have been tested for HIV, “and those who tested positive placed on treatment to prevent mother-to-child transmission, ensuring healthier futures for countless children.”

While commending the unwavering support of stakeholders, she underscored the importance of sustainability to build on the progress made over the years towards enhancing healthcare delivery.