The National Agency for the Control of Aids, NACA and its partners have rejected a report claiming that there is an increase in HIV prevalence in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
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The Deputy Director, Public Affairs and Protocol Unit of NACA, Mrs Toyin Aderibigbe, in a statement in Abuja said that the report in its entirety was false.
“We wish to address a false statement that has come to our attention regarding unusually high HIV prevalence rates in Abuja. After conducting a thorough investigation and reaching out to The Nigerian Red Cross Society (@nrcs_ng), along with our other implementing partners, Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and relevant stakeholders, we can confirm that the statement is entirely untrue. There was no such outreach conducted in Abuja, and the claim that 119 people tested positive out of 197 is false. The accurate data shows that Abuja’s HIV prevalence rate remains at 1.3%, while Nigeria as a whole has a prevalence rate of 1.3%. Additionally, it is essential to clarify that no outreach anywhere in Nigeria could yield a positive rate of 60%. Such a high prevalence rate is not possible in Nigeria or any other country. As the National Agency for the Control of AIDS, we are dedicated to promoting safe sexual practices, including advocating for abstinence and the correct use of condoms to prevent the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. However, we strongly condemn the use of false statistics to drive this critical message. It is essential to disseminate accurate information to effectively combat HIV/AIDS and promote public health”. She said
She however urged all Nigerians to be faithful to their partners and consistently practice safe sex to protect themselves and others from HIV and other infections.
The agency also called on every Nigerian take responsibility for their well-being.
“Let us work together to create a healthier and more informed society, free from the burden of HIV/AIDS”. The statement added.
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