The Civil Society for HIV and AIDS in Nigeria (CISHAN) has called on tertiary institution students in Sokoto to undergo HIV testing and champion awareness campaigns on the disease’s prevalence as part of efforts to combat its spread.
The CISHAN Coordinator in Sokoto, Muhammad Garba, made this appeal during a sensitization program held on Tuesday to mark the 2024 World AIDS Day.
Garba urged governments at all levels, civil society organizations, and stakeholders to scale up HIV testing and treatment services, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas.
He emphasized the need to address social and economic factors such as poverty, stigma, and discrimination, which worsen the HIV epidemic.
Highlighting the role of students as future leaders and their active engagement in social activities, Garba underscored the importance of targeting them with awareness campaigns.
He advised students to adopt preventive measures against HIV infection while reminding them that living with HIV is not a death sentence due to the availability of effective therapies and support systems.
“The World AIDS Day reminds us of the critical importance of access to HIV testing, prevention, and treatment while calling for decisive actions against inequalities. We want students to be prepared for future challenges and well-informed on global health issues,” Garba stated.
He further called on the government to ensure prompt funding approvals, while urging media and community organizations to intensify awareness efforts.
CISHAN’s sensitization program aligns with the global theme of World AIDS Day, focusing on advancing health equity and fostering education to create a future where HIV and AIDS are effectively managed and eventually eradicated.
