The Katsina State Government has disclosed that more than 18,000 people living with HIV are currently receiving free antiretroviral drugs through designated health facilities across the state as part of efforts to improve treatment, reduce transmission and strengthen healthcare services.
The Executive Secretary of the Katsina State Agency for the Control of AIDS, Dr. Bala Nuhu Kankia, disclosed this on Monday while speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the ongoing 2027 pre-budget defence organised by the state Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.
Kankia said the agency, in collaboration with its partners, was also providing food support and other welfare assistance to vulnerable beneficiaries, including pregnant women, children, orphans and other people who have tested positive for HIV.
According to him, the state has established 43 designated treatment centres where patients receive free antiretroviral drugs and related healthcare services.
“We currently provide free HIV drugs to more than 18,000 patients across Katsina State through 43 designated health facilities. Beyond medication, we also support vulnerable beneficiaries with food and other essential needs,” Kankia said.
He explained that the intervention targets pregnant women to prevent mother-to-child transmission, as well as children, orphans and other vulnerable groups affected by the disease.
The executive secretary disclosed that the agency had also selected 1,500 health facilities across the state to provide HIV testing services, particularly for pregnant women attending antenatal clinics.
According to him, early testing and diagnosis remain critical to preventing new infections and ensuring prompt treatment for those living with the virus.
Kankia said the agency had made provisions in the proposed 2027 budget to procure additional HIV testing kits and expand testing services across health facilities in the state.
“We have made adequate budgetary provision to procure more HIV testing kits so that more people can know their status. Early detection remains one of the most effective ways of controlling the spread of HIV,” he said.
He added that the agency would intensify public enlightenment campaigns on HIV prevention and testing in collaboration with development partners.
“We will strengthen awareness campaigns and sensitise our people on HIV/AIDS. The campaign will be carried out with our partners and will reach even the most remote communities across the state,” he said.
Kankia commended the Katsina State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning for approving the agency’s requests in the proposed 2027 budget, describing the support as a demonstration of the government’s commitment to tackling HIV/AIDS.
He also praised the Katsina State Government and the National Agency for the Control of AIDS for sustaining interventions aimed at improving the welfare of people living with HIV.
The executive secretary urged residents to take advantage of the free HIV testing services available in health facilities across the state.
“Everyone should know their HIV status. Early testing helps prevent transmission and allows those who test positive to begin treatment early and live healthy, productive lives,” he said.
West Trybe reports that Katsina continues to expand access to HIV prevention, testing and treatment services as the state government increases investment in healthcare and partners with national and international organisations to reduce new infections, improve maternal health outcomes and provide long-term support for people living with HIV/AIDS.
