World AIDS Day: Govt Called Upon

The 2018 World AIDS Day has come and gone and in a bid to curb the spread of HIV/AIDS in the society, experts have called on government and international agencies to step up action on sensitization of the populace to the dangers of the disease and its high rate of mortality.

In accordance with this year’s theme, ‘Know Your Status’, they have been charged to embark on rigorous enlightenment campaign in order to carry the population along which will have the impact of reducing  the disease in the society.

Speaking on the background of the theme, Dr. Ayo Bamidele stated that the HIV/AIDS statistics for the state was not something that is encouraging, as there is need for more work to be done in the areas of education and enlightenment.

He insisted that these two activities were still on a low and its absence is beginning to manifest as the rate of infection and contacting of the disease is growing rapidly.

“It is surprising to note that even as we are gradually beginning to adjust to the reality of the social media age, a great number of the active population in this country still do not know their status medically.

“This is not good for the health of the nation. We may not know the dangers ahead of us now until it fully-blown. All these fire brigade approach to it will not and is not helping Nigeria. There is need to take a pro-active step.

“The truth is that, we must get tested. We must all know our HIV/AIDS status. As an individual enters the age of maturity or when such a person is sexually active, continual testing and screening is required every six months.

“Tell that to the average Nigerian and they will start complaining about the financial condition and the pressure of society meanwhile their health is suffering.

“I am even of the opinion that it should be made mandatory for all active members of the society to get tested but can it be done? It can be done. It takes the will to make the way”.

He called for the inclusion of the treatment for HIV/AIDS in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) because it will go a long way in fighting the spread of the disease.

Dr. Bamidele added that the move will further underscore the commitment of government to the fight against the global scourge.

“Funding and a strong political will is another area in which the fight against HIV/AIDS should be fought”.

Meanwhile, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) through its Director General, Dr. Sani Aliyu has called on Nigerians to get tested to enable them know their HIV status.