By Dorothy Onoja
In a significant effort to combat the prevalence of HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis in Kogi State, Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has initiated the distribution of a fleet of vehicles and motorcycles to support the state’s elimination program.
During a ceremony held at the Government House premises, the Governor, represented by Hon. Commissioner for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Momodu Ozigi Deedat, officially handed over the keys to two brand new Toyota Hilux vans and 42 motorcycles.
These vehicles, generously donated by the Global Fund through the Federal Ministry of Health, have been specifically tailored for the monitoring and supervising of TB and HIV/AIDS by state and Local Government Area (LGA) teams.
Governor Ododo reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to enhancing Kogi State citizens’ health, which aligns with the Renewed Hope health agenda of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu.
He expressed deep concern over the high rates of Tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS in the state, pledging to reduce these rates to the lowest possible levels.
This initiative follows the recent launch of the tuberculosis campaign by the Governor’s wife, Her Excellency Hajia Sefinat Ahmed Usman Ododo, by the directive of the President’s wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
With the addition of the new vehicle fleet, Kogi State is well-positioned to bolster its response to the HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis epidemic, ensuring citizens have access to top-notch healthcare and support services.
Dr Abdulazeez Adeiza Adams, the Commissioner of Health, highlighted that this event signifies another milestone in Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s relentless pursuit to eradicate these diseases from the state.
He commended the Global Fund for its collaboration with the Kogi State Government, underscoring the importance of this partnership in the fight against HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis
Dr Adams charged officials responsible for maintaining the vehicles and implementing the programme diligently, ensuring that the cars are used for their intended purpose and that the programme achieves its goals.
Dr. Komolafe Rotimi, State Program Manager for Stop TB, representing the Director of Public Health, Dr. Akpa, commended the state government for its commitment to the programme.
He praised Global Fund partners for their unwavering support, stating that the event continues the programme’s launch flagged off by Her Excellency Hajia Sefinat Ahmed Usman Ododo.
Dr. Rotimi emphasised that the vehicles will enhance the state’s capacity to respond to the TB and HIV/AIDS epidemic, ensuring that services reach the most vulnerable populations.
He urged all stakeholders to work together to achieve the programme’s objectives, ultimately reducing the burden of these diseases in Kogi State.
