By Segun Adegboyega
The Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has officially inaugurated the State HIV/Health Oversight Committee on Thursday, October 24th, 2024.
The inauguration ceremony took place in Lokoja, the state capital, where the Governor was represented by the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adams Abdulaziz.
Dr. Abdulaziz emphasized that the State HIV Response Team has been tasked with the crucial responsibility of mobilizing resources for the control and management of HIV in the state.
This team, he said would serve as a coordinating and monitoring body for all HIV control programs in the state.
“This initiative is part of the Nigeria Sustainability HIV Impact Project (NSHIP/G2G), which is funded by the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (US CDC).”
“The goal of this project is to build upon past achievements and ensure the sustainability of HIV control programs throughout Nigeria.”
During the meeting, it was noted that Kogi State’s performance in terms of readiness for the project has shown significant improvement.
In 2023, the state scored 38%, which increased to 79% in 2024 following a joint assessment conducted across CDC-supported states in Nigeria.
Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo, the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, urged CIHP and other NGOs to engage in grassroots sensitization efforts.
This, he noted would ensure that the public is well-informed about where to seek assistance and what steps to take at the appropriate time.
Fanwo emphasized that grassroots sensitization is a critical component that must be prioritized for the benefit of all citizens.
He also assured NGOs and other organizations that the State Ministry of Information and Communications is equipped with the State Broadcasting Corporation, which operates 11 hours a day.
Adding that The Graphic Newspaper and other media outlets are available to disseminate vital information to the public, including those in remote areas.
