In a bold move to sustain the progress made in the fight against HIV/AIDS, the Ekiti State Government, in collaboration with the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), hosted a Strategic Stakeholders Planning (SSP) meeting in Ado-Ekiti.
The three-day meeting brought together government officials, civil society organizations, healthcare professionals, development partners, and community representatives to chart the course for the 2025–2027 Ekiti State Strategic HIV Response Plan.
In a message delivered by the representative of the First Lady of Ekiti State, Her Excellency Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, who was represented by her Editorial Assistance,Mrs Omolara Aina commended the efforts of all stakeholders, noting that the initiative aligns with her vision for a healthier and more inclusive society, she encouraged continued collaboration and compassion. “Be ambassadors of hope, courage, and responsibility,” she urged.
Also lending her voice in her goodwill message,The Head of Service of Ekiti State, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, who was represented by Director of Head of service, Mr L. T. Alesin emphasized the role of accurate information and community awareness in curbing the spread of HIV. “When citizens are well-informed, they make safer choices. Let us continue to prioritize education, prevention, and access to treatment,” she said.
Executive Secretary of EKSACA, Dr. Dairo Ojo, welcomed stakeholders, said the SSP meeting was a critical step in deepening coordination and strategic direction across the state’s HIV response.
Earlier at the event the lead consultant Dr Gbenga delivered a data-driven presentation that revealed both progress and areas of concern. While the general HIV prevalence in Ekiti remains under 1%, key populations show worrying trends—25% prevalence among men who have sex with men (MSM), 15.5% among female sex workers (FSW), and 10.9% among people who inject drugs (PWID).
Despite these figures, Ekiti has made commendable progress:
Over 330,000 residents tested for HIV.
ART (antiretroviral therapy) coverage rose from 3,000 in 2021 to 5,500 in 2024.
More than 120,000 youths reached with HIV education and prevention messaging.
Representatives from NACA Abuja headquarters, Asst. Chief Programme Officer Mrs Rasidat Jogbojogbo, provided insights on sustainability, urging state-level ownership of HIV/AIDS programs, integration of HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria services, and readiness for shifts in international donor support.
The event concluded with renewed commitment among participants to drive a strategic HIV response that is inclusive, impactful, and data-informed.
With collaboration and determination, Ekiti State moves closer to ending the HIV epidemic and ensuring healthier lives for all its citizens.