Over 30,000 People Living With HIV In Ogun, Says Abiodun

Ogun State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has disclosed that over 30,000 residents of the state were infected and currently living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

The governor made the confirmation in Abeokuta, the state capital, during the commissioning of the Pharma-Grade Warehouse of the State’s Drugs and Health Commodities Management Agency.

While emphasising that his administration had achieved milestones in its efforts to reposition the healthcare sector for optimal service delivery, Abiodun, however, declared that all the 30,000 PLWHIV were receiving free antiretroviral therapy, counselling, and support services in health facilities across the state.

Speaking against the backdrop of the fear that the declared figure might not adequately reflect the number of people who are actually infected, the Governor urged residents, particularly those who may not know their status, to take advantage of available healthcare services by visiting hospitals for proper diagnosis and treatment.

He stated further that his administration has continued to strengthen HIV prevention programmes, expand testing services, and implement measures aimed at reducing new infections.

“Today, more than 30,000 residents of Ogun State living with HIV are receiving free antiretroviral therapy, counselling, and support services.

“We continue to strengthen prevention programmes, expand testing services, and reduce new infections,” he said.

The Governor particularly commended the Global Fund for expanding access to HIV treatment in Nigeria and for supporting tuberculosis diagnosis, malaria prevention, and the provision of life-saving medicines and health commodities.

He also noted that the Fund’s grants have particularly benefited women, children, adolescents, vulnerable groups, and underserved communities.

Describing the newly commissioned warehouse as a strategic investment, Abiodun maintained that the facility would enhance the storage, management, and distribution of essential medicines and health commodities across the state.

“The facility will strengthen supply chain efficiency, reduce stock-outs, and ensure that medicines and test kits reach healthcare facilities and patients across the 20 local government areas promptly,” he stated.

He acknowledged that HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria remain significant public health challenges in the state but assured that his administration, working with development partners, is making steady progress through sustained interventions aimed at reducing their impact.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, the Governor said efforts to combat tuberculosis have also been intensified through community outreach programmes, contact tracing, and hotspot mapping.

“Access to diagnostic services, including screening, X-rays, and laboratory testing, has been expanded, while treatment remains free and accessible. Our message is clear: tuberculosis is preventable, detectable, and curable,” he added.

The Governor also commended the federal Government for its efforts to strengthen the health sector and expand access to quality healthcare, noting that Ogun State would continue to align with the national vision by delivering measurable health outcomes for its citizens.

Earlier in his welcome address, the state Commissioner for Health, Dr Tomi Coker, said the facility was established to improve the delivery of quality healthcare services across the state.