World AIDS Day: AHF Takes Sensitisation Campaign To Keffi

To mark World AIDS Day, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) on Monday brought its sensitisation campaign to Keffi, Nasarawa State, with a colourful roadshow and a community-focused health talk.

The event drew residents, youth groups and health workers, all united by a common goal — to raise awareness about HIV prevention, encourage testing and ensure access to treatment.

Speaking at the programme, the Nasarawa State Coordinator of AHF, Dr. Ibrāhīm Bichi, said the campaign was vital in combating the spread of HIV/AIDS.

He explained that the annual commemoration goes beyond statistics, as it serves to show solidarity with people living with HIV and those affected by it.

Bichi revealed that Nasarawa currently has a 2.0% HIV prevalence rate, with an estimated 23,306 residents requiring treatment. He added that AHF is working closely with the state government to address challenges relating to HIV prevention, care and treatment.

AHF Medical Director, Dr. Emmanuel Nwabueze, said the organisation is increasing its efforts daily to eliminate HIV/AIDS by 2030. He said the foundation is also deliberate about strengthening treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and improving general wellness.

“AHF is determined to provide seamless and accessible STI services to the people,” he said.
Nwabueze further disclosed that plans are underway to establish a wellness centre in Nasarawa State, following similar centres already operating in Benue and Abuja.

According to him, the centre will provide STI treatment, free condom education and distribution, and other community-friendly services aimed at prevention.

Senior Advocacy and Marketing Manager at AHF Nigeria, Steve Aborisade, appreciated stakeholders for supporting the outreach. He stressed that the foundation will continue to partner with youth groups and relevant agencies to tackle STIs across the country.

Director of Primary Health Care in Keffi, Mr. Dogara Danjum, emphasised the need for sustained collaboration to address HIV and STIs, noting that local PHC teams are intensifying outreach efforts.

A representative of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Folarin Favour, said corps members are engaging young people across communities to educate them on the dangers of STIs. She thanked AHF for involving NYSC in the programme.

Similarly, Michael Catherine Ishor, representing the Young Peoples Programme (YPP) in Keffi, said the initiative has trained young people on how to protect themselves and support their peers with accurate information.