The Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Nicholas Ba’amlong, has announced that the state recorded 2,786 new cases of HIV infections and 460 related deaths in 2024.
Mr Ba’amlong made this announcement on Monday in Jos during an event to commemorate World AIDS Day 2025, observed globally on 1 December, with the theme “Overcoming Disruption: Sustaining Nigeria’s HIV Response.”
He stated that as of September 2025, there were 51,370 individuals living with HIV in the state, comprising 14,001 men and 33,055 women.
Additionally, he revealed that 47,056 adults and 1,835 children are currently receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART).
The commissioner explained that between January and September 2025, 98,403 individuals were screened, with 1,910 testing positive.
Mr Ba’amlong noted progress in preventing mother-to-child transmission, highlighting that 30,743 pregnant women were tested during this period, with 39 positive cases successfully linked to care.
He mentioned that the state has expanded HIV testing services to over 900 health facilities and has intensified efforts to raise awareness about prevention and treatment.
The commissioner called for stronger community engagement, enhanced access to healthcare, and increased investment in research and innovation to sustain advancements against the disease.
He praised Governor Caleb Mutfwang for approving funds to procure HIV dual test kits, which have been distributed to health facilities across the state.
Mr Ba’amlong also acknowledged the support of development partners in delivering quality healthcare services.
In a similar vein, the Executive Director of the Plateau AIDS Control Agency (PLACA), Esther Turaki, reported that the state achieved a viral load suppression rate of 92 per cent as of June 2025.
Ms Turaki described the HIV Domestic Resource Mobilisation and Sustainability (DRMS) Strategy as a vital initiative aimed at standardising and scaling existing efforts while introducing innovative financing mechanisms.
She outlined that the strategy sets out a clear plan for mobilising new domestic resources by identifying funding sources, annual targets, and key actions required for implementation.
She commended Mr Mutfwang for his ongoing support to the agency.
The keynote address was delivered by Chris Isichei, who urged governments to reduce reliance on donor funding and establish a dedicated HIV funding bank as external support continues to diminish.
He also encouraged the Plateau State government to integrate HIV and AIDS treatment into the state’s health insurance scheme.
(NAN)
