In a powerful reaffirmation of its public health objectives, the Taraba State Government has pledged to intensify its battle against HIV/AIDS, aiming to eliminate new infections by the year 2030. The commitment was declared during the state's commemoration of World AIDS Day in Jalingo.
State's HIV Status and Progress Amid Challenges
Dr. Bako Ali Istifanus, the Director-General and CEO of the Taraba State AIDS Control Agency (TACA), addressed the gathering on Monday. He presented current data, noting that Taraba State's HIV prevalence rate is 2.9 per cent, a figure established by the 2018 National AIDS Indicator Survey (NAIS) which remains the highest in the North-East region.
While acknowledging that no fresh survey has yet confirmed a decrease, Dr. Istifanus pointed to weekly reports from key partners indicating steady improvements in HIV response activities across the state. He revealed that over 50,310 individuals living with HIV in Taraba are currently receiving life-saving antiretroviral therapy (ART).
The DG admitted that the fight has faced hurdles, including a temporary pause in some donor-funded programmes. However, he emphasised that the state is making notable headway despite these disruptions.
Core Strategy: Treatment, Access, and Fighting Stigma
Dr. Istifanus outlined the central pillars of the state's ongoing strategy. He stressed that sustaining treatment for those already diagnosed, expanding access to testing and prevention services, and relentlessly combating the stigma associated with the virus are fundamental to success.
"The power of our response lies in partnership, resilience, and innovation," Dr. Istifanus stated. "To truly overcome disruptions, we must maintain our investments and deepen community engagement. Every person, regardless of age, gender, or background, deserves access to life-saving services."
Leadership and Collaborative Efforts Credited
The TACA boss commended Governor Agbu Kefas for fostering a supportive environment through the administration's Five Point Agenda, which prioritises health sector strengthening alongside other key areas like security and education.
He also expressed gratitude to the State Ministry of Health under Dr. Buma H. Bordiya and a coalition of implementing partners. This group includes:
- AHNI
- EHPAF
- PATA
- Society for Family Health (SFH)
- Numerous community-based and civil society organisations
- The State Agency for the Control of AIDS (SASCP)
Dr. Istifanus attributed the recent gains in the HIV response to the collective work of all these stakeholders.
Concluding his address, he called for renewed dedication from all sectors of society. "Let us celebrate our achievements, reflect on our challenges, and strengthen our commitment to a Taraba State and Nigeria free from the threat of HIV/AIDS," he urged. "Together, we can ensure that no one is left behind and that every person lives with dignity."
