Sokoto State recorded 1,137 fresh HIV infections between January 2020 and September 2021.
The Acting State Coordinator of Civil Society for HIV/AIDS in Nigeria, (CiSHAN), Sokoto State chapter, Muhammad Garba, disclosed this at a press conference in commemoration of 2021 World AIDS Day, yesterday, in Sokoto.
Garba said the State’s prevalence rate is 0.4%, according to the 2018 Nigeria HIV/AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey, (NAISS).
He noted that the reduction in prevalence follows concerted efforts by State and non-State actors within Sokoto State.
He explained that the new cases of infection have been identified and the patients enrolled into treatment care and support, saying, This figure is not inclusive of people who go to private hospitals and laboratories for HIV tests in the State.
He further called for the constitution of the SOSACAT Board, which was absent for about eight years, and provide it with the necessary support to function effectively.
In his remark, Malam Bashir Hassan, the North West Coordinator of CiSHAN, appreciated the effort of the government, partners, and funders who have made it possible to place many people on treatment around the world and those receiving lifesaving drugs.
We advise everyone to get tested, especially the youths, who need to stop indulging in risky behaviors, take charge of their lives and protect themselves, Bashir emphasised.
