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From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
The Oyo State Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde, has approved the release of ₦45 million to the Oyo State Agency for the Control of AIDS (OYSACA) as part of efforts to strengthen the fight against the spread of HIV/AIDS across the state.
Makinde, who spoke through his Deputy, Barr Bayo Lawal, disclosed this during the inauguration of OYSACA ambassadors at the agency’s conference room in Agodi, Ibadan. He explained that the funds, along with the recent approval for the purchase of HIV test kits, were designed to boost the agency’s capacity in combating the epidemic.
The governor inaugurated six ambassadors, including Chief (Dr) Saka Balogun, Archbishop Ayo Ladigbolu, Chief (Mrs) Mutiat Ladoja, Alhaji Rasaq Adeleke, Hon Wale Saminu, and Hon Shina Peller, describing them as carefully selected eminent personalities with the influence and credibility to drive awareness campaigns.
“Inaugurating these ambassadors marks a significant milestone in our journey towards a future where HIV/AIDS is no longer a public health threat,” Makinde said. “As ambassadors, you are champions of change, voices for the voiceless, and beacons of hope. Your roles will inspire truth, promote education, and ultimately save lives.”
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The governor commended OYSACA for championing community engagement in the fight against HIV/AIDS, emphasising that the initiative would help reduce stigma, increase awareness, and ensure access to prevention, treatment, and care services across the state.
Chairman of OYSACA, Dr Gbola Adetunji, praised the governor for his proactive leadership, noting that the funds would expand the agency’s reach to high-risk populations and strengthen partnerships with development partners, such as the Global Fund, APIN, and the Society for Family Health.
He described the inauguration of the ambassadors as a “new chapter” for OYSACA, aimed at bridging collaboration between the government and distinguished citizens in combating the epidemic.
The newly inaugurated ambassadors pledged to use their platforms to educate and mobilise communities, while supporting government initiatives to reduce the prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Oyo State.
