The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja, highlighted the country’s concerted efforts to achieve epidemic control for HIV through a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach.
Dr. Peter Nwaokenneya, Deputy Director/Head of Treatment Care and Support Program at the National HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, and STIs Control Programme (NASCP), shared these insights during a round table with journalists.
Epidemic control for HIV is attained when the total number of new HIV infections falls below the total number of deaths from all causes among people living with HIV.
The round table, themed “Now is the Time: Fighting Pediatric HIV Through Strategic Partnership,” was organized by the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF) in collaboration with NASCP and the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH).
Nwaokenneya acknowledged the country’s significant progress in combating the HIV pandemic, citing efforts to curb the virus’s spread, ensure access to treatment and care, and reduce its impact on the population.
Despite improvements in awareness, increased access to antiretroviral therapy, and a decline in HIV prevalence, challenges persist, necessitating continued work to ensure comprehensive healthcare and eliminate stigma.
Prof. Rosemary Ugwu, a Consultant Pediatrician at the University of Port Harcourt, emphasized the crucial role of young people in decision-making processes and the media’s contribution to promoting inclusion and creating supportive communities in the fight against pediatric HIV.
Mr. Aaron Sunday, National Coordinator of Positive Youths in Nigeria (APYIN), underscored the importance of a human-centered design in identifying HIV cases among adolescents and administering appropriate treatment.
He emphasized empowerment, empathy, partnership, and trust as essential elements in this approach, expressing the goal of eliminating the disease by 2030.
Dr. Nguavese Torbunde, Country Manager at the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF), outlined the goal to eliminate new pediatric HIV infections and improve access to treatment, contributing to the overarching aim of ending AIDS in children.
Strengthening healthcare infrastructure, increasing awareness, and fostering collaboration between governments, NGOs, and pharmaceutical companies were highlighted as essential steps in closing the gap in pediatric HIV/AIDS care.
The event provided valuable insights for journalists on enhancing their reportage of pediatric HIV and addressing the progress toward an AIDS-free generation.