The Nigerian government has released N8 billion for the fight against
HIV/AIDS in Taraba and Abia states through a standard disease control
programme.
Prof John Idoko, Director General of The National Agency for Control of
AIDS/SURE-P HIV Implementation programme, said that the funds were targeted at
providing Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) treatment for about 50,000 eligible
adults and children. The programme also aims to improve 'Prevention of Mother
to Child Transmission' care for 10,000 pregnant women in the two states.
The DG explained that the taking over of AIDS control programme by Taraba
State government with support from NACA, was to ensure active involvement of
government in HIV/AIDS fight instead of leaving it to international partners
alone.
He urged the Taraba State government and all relevant stakeholders to put in
their best to ensure that it does not fail.
Dr Robert Chiegel, deputy country director of fhi360, said it has so far provided
treatments, care and supports for over 270,000 persons living with HIV/AIDS in
the state since it began its operations in Taraba over 10 years ago.
"HIV implementation programme in the state would not fail following the
transition from the international partner to the government," he said.
Source: Medindia
Careers
