World AIDS Day: Kano pledges to end HIV epidemic by 2030

The Kano State Government has ramped up its efforts to eradicate HIV epidemic as the number of people affected by the disease continues to rise, with a renewed commitment to end the epidemic by 2030.

In Kano alone, an estimated 30,000 individuals are living with HIV, contributing to the 2.1 million cases in Nigeria and the 39.9 million globally. 

At a press briefing to commemorate World AIDS Day 2024 on Monday, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, disclosed that the government has significantly increased its investment in healthcare to address the epidemic.

SolaceBase reports that the media briefing was part of activities organized by the Kano State Agency for the Control of AIDS (KSACA), with the theme, “Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right!”  to mark the day.

The Kano State Agency for the Control of AIDS (KSACA) is headed by a Director General, Dr Usman Bashir

Dr. Yusuf revealed that under the leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, the state is committed to providing equitable access to healthcare services without discrimination.

He noted that efforts have been focused on improving access to HIV testing and treatment, combating stigma, and supporting vulnerable populations. 

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“Our Executive Governor signed into law a comprehensive pre-marital screening bill, which mandates screenings for HIV, sickle cell genotype, and hepatitis B,” he said.

He added that the law also enforces strict penalties against those who stigmatize or discriminate against people living with HIV. 

The Commissioner highlighted that the state’s budget allocation for HIV initiatives increased from ₦300 million in 2023 to ₦2 billion in 2024.

He said the funds have been used to purchase rapid test kits, upgrade the KSACA office with solar power, and acquire third-line antiretroviral drugs for patients who need them. 

In addition, Dr. Yusuf announced the establishment of a state-of-the-art Paediatric ARV/TB and Cervical Cancer Screening Centre at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital to improve healthcare services for children living with HIV. 

Efforts to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV have also been strengthened. “We tested 94.3% of pregnant women during their first antenatal visit, and only 0.07% tested positive,” he explained, adding, “These cases were managed to prevent transmission to their newborns.” 

The Commissioner expressed concern over the persistent stigma and discrimination faced by people living with HIV, describing it as a significant barrier to ending the epidemic.

He called on the public to show compassion and solidarity with those affected by the disease. 

“As we commemorate World AIDS Day, we must continue to advocate for those affected, fight against stigma and discrimination, and ensure universal access to prevention, treatment, care, and support,” he said. 

Dr. Yusuf also urged the residents to remember those who have lost their lives to AIDS and to remain committed to the fight against HIV.

“Together, we can end the HIV/AIDS epidemic by 2030,” he declared.