In a significant step towards eliminating HIV transmission from mother to child, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has launched a multi-sectoral committee in Delta State. This initiative aims to reduce the alarming number of children born with HIV and ensure that pregnant women receive the necessary care to protect their unborn children.
Dr. Temitope Ilori, the Director-General of NACA, inaugurated the Delta State Paediatric Prevention of Maternal-to-Child Transmission of HIV Accelerated Committee on Thursday in Asaba, the state capital. During the ceremony, Dr. Ilori emphasized that despite funding challenges, HIV treatment remains free across the country, offering hope for a future without mother-to-child transmission.
“The fight against HIV remains a top priority for President Bola Tinubu, who has allocated N300 billion in the national budget to combat HIV and other health-related issues,” Dr. Ilori explained. She also highlighted the important role of international partners, particularly the U.S. Government, and other global supporters in Nigeria’s efforts to eliminate HIV transmission, particularly from mother to child.
According to Dr. Ilori, while HIV remains prevalent in Nigeria, currently affecting 1.4% of the population, Delta State has a slightly higher rate of 1.9%. She acknowledged the gravity of the situation, stating, “Nigeria has the highest burden of children born with HIV, and we must change this narrative.” Dr. Ilori urged pregnant women to seek antenatal care, get tested for HIV, and, if positive, receive immediate treatment to prevent passing the virus to their babies.
She reassured the public that antiretroviral medications are readily available at hospitals, primary healthcare centers, and teaching hospitals across the state. “If pregnant women test positive early and receive the proper treatment, they can give birth to HIV-negative children,” she affirmed.
The committee, which includes a wide range of stakeholders such as faith-based organizations, is tasked with ensuring that all mothers and women have access to essential antenatal care. In addition, the committee will work closely with local health institutions to raise awareness and ensure seamless access to free HIV treatment for both mothers and children.
Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, the State Commissioner for Health, who was represented by Dr. Philomena Okeowo, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, praised the initiative, calling the timing of the committee’s formation “perfect.” He reiterated the state government’s commitment to ending HIV transmission from mother to child and assured support for the committee’s efforts.
The Executive Secretary of the Delta State Agency for the Control of AIDS, Dr. Hobson Rudolf, also weighed in, emphasizing that the newly inaugurated committee would develop a clear roadmap to achieve its goal of eliminating mother-to-child HIV transmission in Delta.
This collaborative effort marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against HIV, with Delta State leading the charge in the fight to protect future generations from the virus.
