HIV/AIDS Epidemic Grows in Borno, With 18,000 Individuals Receiving Treatment
A concerning rise in HIV/AIDS cases has been reported in Borno, where a total of 18,059 individuals, including 795 children, are currently undergoing treatment for the condition.
The Executive Secretary of the Borno State Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS (BOSACA), Hajiya Falmata Alhaji-Bukar, shared this information with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Maiduguri on Friday.
Highlighting the upward trend of HIV/AIDS prevalence in Borno, Alhaji-Bukar emphasized the need for enhanced awareness campaigns, particularly in rural areas.
This initiative aligns with this year’s theme, “Let Communities Lead.” She noted that urban residents tend to be more informed about HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment compared to those in rural communities.
“After today’s programme to mark the day in Maiduguri, we will proceed to Mafa LGA for an enlightenment programme. We have also mobilised our Local Action Committee on AIDs (LACA) to do more at the grassroots level,” said Alhaji-Bukar.
Emphasizing the importance of individuals knowing their HIV status, she revealed that the agency, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and various partners, has established a system to promptly provide treatment for anyone testing positive.
However, the campaign against HIV/AIDS in the state faces challenges such as insecurity in areas affected by insurgency and a shortage of staff.
Alhaji-Bukar expressed hope that the Ministry of Health would address these issues, particularly the need for additional personnel.
Mamman Musa, a member of People Living with HIV/AIDS in Borno, called for increased support and funding for the campaign.
He urged the government to provide an office for their activities and an ambulance to transport members unable to walk due to drug side effects.
Source: PM News
