Nigeria in combat against HIV/AIDS
Nigeria targets control of HIV/AIDS by 2030. Adebobola Bashorun, National Coordinator, National HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, and STI Control Programme, Ministry of Health, stated on Tuesday that Nigeria should be working toward HIV/AIDS pandemic control by 2023.
According to the 2019 Nigeria National HIV/AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey, 1.9 million Nigerians are infected with the virus.
Bashorun, who spoke at the release of the results of the Society for Family Health’s pilot plan in Lagos and Abuja, emphasized the importance of self-tests and the necessity for everyone to know their status.
He also stated that the HIV self-testing kits will aid in the rapid determination of an individual’s HIV status.
“The HIV self-test does not require a facility,” he said. All that is required are the test kits, which, like pregnancy kits, indicate whether the test is positive or negative.
“It also allows you to quickly identify your health status and connect with care.” So you come after me after you have tested yourself, who is self-testing.
“This program is more of a feasibility study on how to use it in Nigeria.” We already use it and need to extend it.”
“The test kits are reasonably priced and heavily subsidized.” Many of them are even free, but the goal is to illustrate how they can be obtained over the counter.”
According to the National Coordinator, the government has contributed to the treatment of HIV/AIDS during the previous 30 years through boosting treatment coverage.
“Nigeria has increased its treatment coverage, and we have been able to push out condoms as a preventive measure,” Bashorun said.
“Over the last 30 years, the government has done a lot of HIV/AIDS treatment and raised awareness.”
“By 2030, Nigeria should be moving towards some form of epidemic control.”
Dr. Omokhudu Idogho, Managing Director of the Society for Family Health, stated in his welcome address, “With the government, we have developed a comprehensive roadmap for private sector investment testing.” This strategy will make it easier for the private sector to get involved.
“Our efforts have been motivated by a shared vision of improving access to HR service integration across the country and recognizing the importance of engaging stakeholders.”
“Through community mobilization efforts, we were able to reach over 50,000 people, raising awareness and driving engagement.”