By Solomon Ayado
In order to improve condom forecasting, usage and distribution among Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), prisoners and the key and general populations, the Benue State Agency for the Control of AIDS (BenSACA), has involved Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), the media and other critical stakeholders to enhance prevention of the deadly HIV scourge.
At a meeting of stakeholders held at the BenSACA headquarters in Makurdi, the stakeholders evolved that there is lack of awareness on usage of condoms, and how and where to get them, especially among the vulnerable people in the society.
The stakeholders said the need to foster enlightenment on the issue is very imperative so as to prevent new infections and also avert unplanned pregnancies.
The Executive Secretary of BenSACA, Dr Ephraim Tyo, while addressing the meeting explained that the forum became necessary to strategise and stem the negligible spread of HIV and other Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STIs) in the state and country.
He said with wide awareness and campaigns, it would avert new infections and institute a healthy society where development and growth can strive.
According to Tyo, Benue is among the few states that have passed the HIV anti-stigma law in Nigeria and, that the state government is committed in ensuring behavioural change concerning sex practices.
Tyo, who further noted that condom programming vary from state to state, said the situation is due to epidemiological and cultural factors.
Highlight of the critical stakeholders meeting was presentation of awareness campaign on comprehensive condom programming in Benue; understanding the diversity as it affects the key population in IDPs camps; as well as outreach schedule on integrated condom distribution and HIV testing to key population.