The Director General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Dr. Temitope Ilori, has raised alarm over the 2.9 percent HIV prevalence rate in Taraba State, urging for intensified, unified action to curb the spread and meet the global target of ending AIDS by 2030.
Dr. Ilori made the call on Tuesday in Jalingo during the official inauguration of the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) and Paediatric HIV Acceleration Committee (PPAC).
She emphasized the need for sustained collaboration among the state government, development partners, healthcare workers, and communities.
“We must work together to reduce this prevalence rate to zero,” she said. “The fight against HIV requires consistent, collective action.”
Addressing recent reports of difficulties in accessing HIV medication, Dr. Ilori dismissed claims that the withdrawal of USAID support had caused a drug shortage. She reassured the public that antiretroviral drugs remain available and are being distributed free of charge across the country.
She also commended the Taraba State government for prioritizing healthcare, noting that the sector ranks just behind education in the administration’s agenda.
Also speaking at the event, the Director General of the Taraba State AIDS Control Agency (TACA), Dr. Bako Ali Istifanus, described the inauguration of the PPAC as a “historic moment” in the fight against HIV/AIDS in the state. He highlighted the urgency of safeguarding women and children, who are most at risk of infection.
“This committee marks a significant milestone in our efforts to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV and ensure that no child is born with the virus in Taraba,” Dr. Istifanus said.
While acknowledging progress in the state’s HIV response, he noted persistent gaps, particularly in PMTCT and paediatric services. He said the PPAC was established to improve coordination, advocacy, and the delivery of high-quality healthcare.
Dr. Istifanus also lauded Dr. Ilori’s leadership at NACA, describing her presence as a symbol of the agency’s commitment to supporting states in their HIV/AIDS response.
He pledged the Taraba State Government’s full support for the committee’s work, vowing that no woman should die from AIDS-related causes and no child should be born with HIV under the new initiative.
By Charles Akpeji