By Emmanuel Oluwadola

The Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu has promised to create an enabling environment, social policies and programmes to facilitate the end of HIV/AIDS by 2030 in the state.

Akeredolu disclosed this during the 2023 World AIDS Day commemoration, organized by the State Agency for the Control of AIDS (ODSACA), with the theme, “Communities: Leadership to end AIDS by 2030”.

Addressing the stakeholders in Akure, the Governor who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu, called on Civil Societies, Non-governmental organizations, religious bodies and other partners to collaborate in achieving zero new HIV infections in the state.

Akeredolu re-emphasised his commitment to the people’s well-being, stressing the importance of adherence to testing and medication to prevent further transmission.

The Governor also confirmed that the State is among the few States that have achieved treatment saturation, just as he appreciated the efforts of all stakeholders.

He officially flagged off the HIV/AIDS awareness trek from the Government House to Democracy Park on Adesida Road, Akure to commemorate the day.

Akeredolu who stressed the importance of practising safe sex, further advocated the use of condoms to minimize risks.

He also called for increased awareness among students and youths across the state to prevent infection.

In his remarks, the State Head of Service, Pastor Kayode Ogundele, noted that HIV is not a death sentence and encouraged creating an inclusive environment for infected individuals.

Ogundele assured that the civil service of the State will not discriminate but will continue to support any worker tested positive. He pledged assistance to reduce HIV in the public space.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Ajaka, praised the state’s achievements in HIV/AIDS awareness and support.

Ajaka who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Folukemi Aladenola, said that people have lived with the virus for decades, living comfortably, even as he emphasised the government’s preparedness to provide adequate support.

The Project Manager, ODSACA, Dr. Dayo Adegbulu, revealed that this year’s commemoration makes it 35th in the State, and stressed the need for community leadership and engagement to achieve the goal of ending AIDS by 2030.