By Sulyman Pakoyi

To commemorate the 2024 World AIDS Day, the Ondo State Agency for the Control of AIDS (ODSACA), on Sunday organised a thanksgiving service, in Akure, the state capital.

The thanksgiving service held at the Chapel of Grace, Government House, Alagbaka, was attended by the state governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami, some members of the State Executive Council and other top government functionaries.

Dr Dayo Adegbulu, the Project Manager of ODSACA, stated that the thanksgiving was part of the agency’s sensitisation programme aimed at educating the public on HIV/AIDS prevention and remembering those who have lost their lives to the epidemic.

“The theme for this year is Take the Right Path. Today is a moment for reflection and an opportunity to properly analyse where we started, where we are, and what we need to put in place to achieve our desired goals,” he said.

Dr Adegbulu revealed that out of the 28,334 people estimated to be living with HIV in Ondo State, over 21,310 are currently on treatment and receiving necessary medications.

He emphasised the need to consolidate achievements and implement effective strategies to eradicate HIV/AIDS by 2030.

Similarly, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Ajaka, highlighted the state’s progress in the health sector, saying that Ondo State has been consistent in providing treatment and support for HIV/AIDS patients.

He reiterated government’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery in the state.

The agency will hold an awareness walk on Monday, December 2, 2024, to sensitise the public on HIV/AIDS prevention.