The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has said there’s need for a stronger national commitment to eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, as every child deserves a healthy start in life, and noted that Nigeria has made notable progress in its HIV response.
Director-General of NACA, Dr. Temitope Ilori, in a statement to mark this year’s Children’s Day celebration, however expressed worries about the thousands of children born with the virus each year, an outcome that Dr. Ilori says is entirely preventable.
According to the NACA D-G, the Children’s Day celebration should serve as a reminder of the nation’s responsibility to protect its future by ensuring that every pregnant woman is tested early for HIV, and, if positive, is promptly placed on treatment and supported through pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding.
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NACA acknowledges the expansion of PMTCT services in recent years, but noted that significant gaps remain that are driven by stigma and discrimination barriers, which ultimately discourages women from seeking care.
The Agency therefore appealed to healthcare providers, community and faith-based organizations, families, and caregivers to play their parts in ending pediatric HIV and ensuring a healthier generation of Nigerian children.
(Editor: Ken Eseni)
