“Equalize to End AIDS.” Banigo Urge Rivers Residents To Utilize The Free HIV Services Across The State

As the World Commemorates the 2022 World Aids Day, Rivers State Deputy Governor, Dr. (Mrs) Ipalibo Harry Banigo says nobody should be left out and people should avail themselves of the available HIV services across the State.

Dr.  Banigo stated this in her goodwill message from the Government House in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, 30th November 2022 to commemorate World Aids Day.

According to the Deputy Governor, in line with this year’s theme, which is: “Equalize to End AIDS.”   Implementers in the HIV/AIDS response space should focus on underserved populations like pregnant women, children, adolescents, and key populations and people in correctional centers.

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Dr.  Banigo who reiterated the commitment of Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike-led Administration to reduce the disease burden of the Rivers People disclosed that the State was among the 7 states that implement the ADOKIT project. Adolescents Kits for Innovation and Expression.

She also said only three States, Rivers, Lagos and Anambra, are implementing the new YAaH Naija Project which stands for Youthful, Alive and Healthy. This project uses social media to provide HIV services to adolescents, adding that Rivers State has just commenced the Needle and Syringe Program (NSP) targeting People Who Inject Drugs.

The Deputy Governor urged all citizens of the state particularly pregnant women to take advantage of these services.

It would be recalled that the 1st of December each year has been set aside to commemorate World Aids Day.

Owupele Benebo Head of Press, Deputy Governor’s Office, Port Harcourt.

(Wednesday, November 30th 2022.)