Abuja: The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has called on stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to safeguarding the health and future of Nigerian children as Nigeria celebrates Children's Day. Dr. Temitope Ilori, Director-General of NACA, emphasized the need to strengthen efforts to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Ilori highlighted that despite significant progress, thousands of children in Nigeria are still born with HIV each year, a situation she described as a preventable tragedy. She stressed that every child deserves a healthy start to life, and Prevention of Mother-To-Child Transmission of HIV (PMTCT) services remain one of the most effective strategies in ending pediatric HIV and ensuring that no child is born with the virus.
Dr. Ilori remarked that Children's Day serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting the next generation. This includes ensuring that every pregnant woman has access to early testing and, if positive, is provided with treatment and continuous care throughout pregnancy, delivery, and breastfeeding.
She acknowledged the progress Nigeria has made in expanding PMTCT services but pointed out the lingering gaps widened by stigma and discrimination that discourage women from seeking care. Dr. Ilori urged healthcare providers to ensure quality, respectful care for women and children, and called on community and faith-based organizations to raise awareness and combat stigma.
Additionally, she appealed to families and caregivers to support women in accessing and adhering to treatment. Dr. Ilori concluded by stating that an HIV-free generation is possible only if actions are taken with urgency and compassion, and urged everyone to celebrate children by protecting their rights to be born free of HIV.