This information was shared by Governor Hyacinth Alia during a road-walk awareness event supporting those affected by HIV/AIDS.
Deputy Governor Barr Sam Ode, who represented the Governor at the event, stated that the laws enacted in 2019 were intended to reduce discrimination and stigma against individuals living with HIV/AIDS in the state.
He reiterated the administration’s commitment to providing modern healthcare facilities for the treatment of HIV/AIDS and support for those affected.
Ode expressed gratitude to partners, including the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), international donors, and technical partners for their ongoing assistance in fighting the epidemic in the state.
He emphasized that addressing the HIV/AIDS pandemic is a top priority for the administration and called for collaboration to combat it.
In his comments, the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Paul Ogwuche, praised development partners for their contributions to enhancing the state’s health sector.
He recognized Governor Alia’s efforts in establishing testing centers to encourage residents to learn their status.
Dina Doose Aernyi, Chairman of the Shimaveren Support Group Association at the Federal Medical Centre in Makurdi, commended the government for organizing the road walk, highlighting that the initiative would help raise public awareness.
She urged those who have not yet checked their status to take advantage of the free HIV testing, assuring them of complete confidentiality.
Additionally, Josephine Angev, the AHD Champion Lead Facilitator in Benue State, also spoke.