Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has approved a N45 million grant to the Oyo State Agency for the Control of AIDS (OYSACA) to bolster efforts in curbing the spread of HIV/AIDS across the state.
The announcement was made during a meeting with health officials at the Government House in Ibadan.
The funding aims to strengthen awareness campaigns, expand access to testing and counseling, and enhance treatment programs for those living with HIV/AIDS.
Governor Makinde emphasized the state’s commitment to reducing the prevalence of the virus, which continues to pose a public health challenge.
Dr. Temitope Alonge, Executive Secretary of OYSACA, expressed gratitude for the governor’s support, noting that the funds will enable the agency to reach underserved communities and improve healthcare delivery.
“This intervention will go a long way in scaling up our prevention and treatment efforts,” Alonge said.
The initiative includes plans to distribute free testing kits, provide antiretroviral therapy, and train healthcare workers to support affected individuals.
Community leaders and health advocates have hailed the move, urging residents to take advantage of the programs to know their status and seek timely treatment.
Oyo State has made strides in managing HIV/AIDS, with recent data showing a decline in new infections.
However, officials stress the need for sustained efforts to achieve the global target of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
Governor Makinde reiterated his administration’s focus on improving healthcare access, stating, “We are committed to ensuring no one is left behind in our fight against HIV/AIDS.”
The funds are expected to be disbursed immediately to kickstart the agency’s planned activities.
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