By Yemi Akinsuyi
The Oyo State Government has called for renewed commitment and collective actions in the fight against HIV/AIDS across the State.
This call was made by the Chairman, Oyo State Agency for the Control of AIDS (OYSACA), Dr. Gbola Adetunji, on Tuesday in Ibadan while speaking on activities lined-up for the commemoration of this year’s World AIDS Day (2025 WAD).
Dr. Adetunji noted that this year’s World AIDS Day themed, “Overcoming Disruption: Sustaining Nigeria’s HIV Response,” underlines the need for unity and accountability in ending the epidemic.
He emphasized on prevention, awareness, and sustained support for People Living with HIV (PLHIV).
Adetunji reiterated the Agency’s commitment to strengthen the fight against HIV/AIDS.
He highlighted the significant strides made by the State at reducing HIV prevalence and raised concerns about new infections, particularly among young people.
Dr. Gbola Adetunji explained that the current administration in the State, under the leadership of Governor ‘Seyi Makinde, has continued to prioritize HIV services through improved access to treatment and adequate awareness on transmission and prevention.
He said: “Over the years, we’ve made significant strides in increasing access to HIV testing, treatment, and care.”
“Our state has recorded a notable decrease in new infections, thanks to the tireless efforts of our healthcare workers, community leaders, and individuals living with HIV.”
“We’ve strengthened our prevention programs, focusing on education, condom distribution, and mother-to-child transmission prevention.”
“We also thank the State Government for the allocation and enrollment of 10,000 Health Insurance Scheme slots from the State Health Insurance Agency OYSHIA) to the People Living With HIV ” He concluded.
The Coordinating Director of the Agency, Dr. Wale Falana, stated that OYSACA will embark on a State-wide awareness walk, HIV counseling and free testing services, school and market outreach, media engagement, and Community Dialogue as part of the commemoration of this year’s World AIDs Day to deepen understanding and reduce stigma.
He enjoined the people of the State to prioritize their health by making judicious use of the free testing and counseling, seeking accurate information, and utilizing available services.
Dr. Falana opined that ignorance and stigma remain major obstacles to ending HIV/AIDS.
He said that “Oyo State Government has a law in place since 2016 -Oyo State 2016 Anti-Discrimination and Stigma Law on HIV/AIDs- which make it a criminal offense to stigmatize or discriminate against People Living With HIV and AIDs.”
“So we need to be very careful because there is a fine and even a jail term”, he added.
