In observance of this year’s Children’s Day, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) emphasized that no child should be born with HIV, particularly in an era of advanced medical technology.
Dr. Temitope Ilori, the director-general of NACA, underscored that Children’s Day, celebrated annually on May 27, reminds us of the preciousness of children and our collective responsibility to ensure their health, happiness, and well-being.
In a statement released on Sunday, Dr. Ilori highlighted the importance of addressing the transmission of HIV from mother to child. “On this special day, we reaffirm our commitment to the goal that no child should be born with HIV,” she said.
Dr. Ilori stressed the need for stronger commitments to protect children from preventable diseases, including HIV. “As we honour our children today, we must also commit to protecting them from preventable diseases, including HIV. No child should begin life with the burden of HIV when it is within our power to prevent it. By strengthening Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission (PMTCT) services, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow up healthy and strong,” she added.
She acknowledged the progress Nigeria has made in reducing mother-to-child transmission of HIV but noted that significant work remains. NACA is dedicated to ensuring that every pregnant woman living with HIV receives the necessary care and treatment to prevent transmission to her child.
“Our goal is clear: to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV in Nigeria. This requires the collective effort of government agencies, healthcare providers, civil society organizations, and communities. By providing antiretroviral therapy to pregnant women living with HIV, promoting safe delivery practices, and supporting appropriate breastfeeding methods, we can protect our children from HIV,” Dr. Ilori stated.
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