In commemoration of Children’s Day, Dr Temitope Ilori, the Director General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), emphasised that no child should be born with HIV in this era of advanced technology and innovations.
As outlined in a press statement signed by the agency’s Head of Public Relations and Protocol, Toyin Aderibigbe, Ilori underscored the significance of Children’s Day, reminding us of the invaluable treasure children embody and the nation’s duty to ensure their well-being.
She underscored the importance of tackling HIV transmission from mother to child.
“On this special day, we reaffirm our commitment to the goal that no child should be born with 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 services, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow up healthy and strong,” she added.
“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 organisations, 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,” she said.