By Danjuma Bala
Stakeholders in Nasarawa State have called for the establishment of a dedicated agency to provide healthcare and economic empowerment for childbearing women living with HIV and AIDS.
This recommendation was made at a one-day meeting in Lafia, the state capital, as part of efforts to prevent mother-to-child transmission of the virus.
The meeting was centered on validating a recent survey that explored barriers to preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV among underserved women of childbearing age in Nigeria.
The survey, funded by The Love Alliance in collaboration with the Global Network of People Living with HIV (GNP+), revealed significant challenges faced by women in rural communities.
Dr. Ifekandu Chiedu, the lead presenter, highlighted the findings of the survey. “Most childbearing women living with HIV in rural communities face stigma, isolation, and limited access to healthcare and social services.
“These issues contribute to new infections, especially among mothers and their children,” he said.
Dr. Chiedu urged federal and state governments to adopt policies that offer legal support and create widespread awareness to reduce new infections.
Nasarawa State Manager for the Institute of Human Virology of Nigeria, Dr. Eze Oka, emphasized the importance of prioritizing women and children in HIV/AIDS programs.
“Economic empowerment and a stronger healthcare system are crucial for addressing this challenge effectively,” he stated.
Similarly, Mr. Abel Okopi of the National Human Rights Commission stressed the need for collaboration and inclusivity.
“To provide adequate protection for people living with HIV and vulnerable groups, stakeholders must work together to eliminate barriers,” he said.
The Nasarawa State Coordinator of the Association of Women Living with HIV and AIDS in Nigeria, Mrs. Rahab Irmiya, pointed out the role of public perception in combating the issue.
“Attitudinal change is key to ending mother-to-child transmission of HIV,” she stated.
The North Central Zonal Coordinator of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS, Mr. Seyi Iliyomade, added that combating stigma and securing domestic funding for HIV/AIDS programs should remain top priorities.
“We must intensify campaigns against discrimination and ensure sustainable funding for these initiatives,” he urged.
The meeting, which brought together representatives from the National Human Rights Commission, the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, and Civil Society Organizations, underscored the need for targeted action to address gaps in healthcare access and social support for women living with HIV in Nasarawa State.
