The Jigawa State Agency for the Control of AIDS has announced plans to begin dispensing anti-retroviral drugs at primary healthcare centres across the state.
It could be recalled that, according to recent statistics, Nigeria has a significant HIV/AIDS burden, with over two million people currently living with the disease across the country.
In Jigawa State, records show that 0.3% of its population was affected, with approximately 5,000 registered people living with HIV/AIDS and receiving retroviral drugs across 14 facilities, although it’s estimated that a larger number, around 26,000, might be infected but haven’t accessed treatment, highlighting the need for increased awareness and access to care.
While interacting with journalists in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital, on Thursday, the manager of the Jigawa State Agency for the Control of AIDS, Mr. Ibrahim Almajiri, said the move aims to make it easier for patients to access the life-saving medication.
We are planning to begin dispensing antiretroviral drugs at the primary healthcare centres across the state to make it easier for the patients to access the drugs,” he said.
“This development is part of JISACA’s efforts to eliminate HIV/AIDS in the state by 2030,” Almajiri stated, adding that the state has been making progress in controlling the spread of the disease over the years.
He stated further that the agency has been providing support to people living with HIV/AIDS, including psychosocial support, access to medication, and nutritious food supplies.
This support has played a vital role in reducing stigma and discrimination against people living with the disease,” Almajiri explained.
However, the JISACA’s manager emphasised that to further expand access to HIV treatment, the agency has established 17 antiretroviral treatment centres in different parts of the state.
Additionally, the manager revealed that several HIV testing centres have been set up to encourage early detection and treatment across the 27 local government areas in the state.
Furthermore, Almajiri said that JISACA has also made it compulsory for intending couples to undergo HIV testing before marriage. “This move aims to prevent the spread of the disease and ensure that those infected receive timely treatment,” he added.
Accordingly, Mr. Almajiri further highlighted that in the current dispensation, all HIV-positive patients in Jigawa have been enrolled in the Dan Modi Healthcare program, which provides them with comprehensive care and support.
“The program has been instrumental in improving the health and well-being of people living with HIV/AIDS across the state,” he said.
Almajiri therefore commended the state’s government for its support and commitment to controlling the spread of HIV/AIDS and urged residents in the state to get tested and know their status, emphasising that early detection and treatment are key to managing the disease.
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