The Ogun State Government has announced remarkable achievements in its campaign against HIV and AIDS, with significant improvements recorded across key indicators according to health officials.
Major Breakthroughs in HIV Response
State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, revealed these developments during the 2025 World AIDS Day Celebration held on Tuesday. The event carried the theme "Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response."
Dr. Coker disclosed that over 30,000 people are currently receiving free anti-retroviral therapy in various health facilities across the state. She emphasized that HIV testing and counselling services have been extended to all 20 Local Government Areas, making critical care more accessible to residents.
The commissioner highlighted that 96 percent of people tested for HIV infection in Ogun State now know their status, representing a significant milestone in the state's healthcare delivery system.
Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission Success
One of the most notable achievements is the substantial expansion of the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) program. This initiative has resulted in more mothers giving birth to HIV-free children, marking a crucial victory in the fight against the disease.
"We have strengthened our response and improved access to life-saving services," Dr. Coker explained. "Today, in Ogun State, 96 percent of people living with HIV know their status, while 78 percent are on treatment."
The state aims to achieve the UNAIDS target of 95:95:95 by 2030, demonstrating its commitment to global health standards. This ambitious goal represents 95% of people living with HIV knowing their status, 95% of those who know their status receiving treatment, and 95% of those on treatment achieving viral suppression.
Future Strategies and Challenges
Dr. Coker noted that during the recently concluded National Council on Health, discussions centered on lowering the age for HIV voluntary testing to 14 years. This development holds particular significance for Ogun State, given its status as Nigeria's tertiary institution hub with a substantial youth population.
The commissioner attributed the state's progress to the unwavering commitment of OGSACA, implementing partners, and dedicated health workers across Ogun State. However, she acknowledged that stigma remains a significant barrier to care and new infections continue to occur.
To address ongoing challenges, the state has developed a comprehensive two-year strategic plan (2025-2027) focused on multiple fronts. The plan prioritizes eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV by 2030, strengthening health systems, promoting data-driven decision-making, and encouraging community-led responses.
Dr. Rotimi Ogungbe, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, emphasized the need to strengthen advocacy efforts and analyze progress to overcome existing challenges. He identified lack of funds and donor unavailability as critical issues affecting the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Dr. Kayode Oladeinde, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, stressed the importance of creating awareness about effective HIV control measures. He called for the internalization, institutionalization, and localization of response mechanisms rather than depending on external assistance.
The state government continues to work toward ensuring sustainability through domestic resource mobilization while maintaining universal access to HIV prevention, testing, and treatment services.
