Kebbi Govt. Urges citizens to shun HIV stigma

The Kebbi State Government has urged citizens to avoid stigmatising people living with HIV and AIDS.

Commissioner for Health, Alhaji Yunusa Isma’il, made the appeal during a press conference in Birnin Kebbi on Sunday, coinciding with World AIDS Day.

Isma’il emphasised the importance of creating awareness to prevent the spread of the disease.

He assured that the state government, under Gov.  Nasir Idris, was committed to supporting the fight against HIV and AIDS.

The commissioner lauded the theme of this year’s campaign: “Take the Rights Paths – Sustain HIV Response – Stop HIV Among Children,” as apt.

Earlier, the State Action Committee on AIDS, in collaboration with Non-Governmental Organisations, organised a walk to raise awareness about the disease.

According to recent studies, “Stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS can have severe consequences, including social isolation, depression, and poor health outcomes.”

It is essential to address these issues to ensure that individuals living with HIV/AIDS receive the necessary support and care.