The Jigawa State Agency for the Control of AIDS (JISACA) has announced an ambitious goal — to completely eliminate HIV in the state by the year 2030.

Speaking during a programme on Radio Jigawa, the agency's manager, Ibrahim Almajiri, said the state has made steady progress over the years in fighting the virus. According to him, this success is due to continuous support for people living with HIV, including free access to antiretroviral drugs, counselling, and nutritional support.

“These efforts have not only helped control the spread of HIV but have also reduced stigma and discrimination against people living with the virus,” Almajiri said.

Jigawa currently has 17 antiretroviral treatment (ART) centres spread across the state, as well as many HIV testing centres. In a move to further improve access, the state plans to start distributing HIV medication at primary healthcare centres so that patients in rural areas can receive treatment with ease.

The agency has also made it compulsory for all intending couples to undergo an HIV test before getting married. Additionally, all HIV-positive patients in Jigawa have been enrolled in the state’s “Dan Modi” healthcare program to ensure they continue receiving treatment and support.

Jigawa State currently has the lowest HIV rate in Nigeria, with only about 0.3% of its population affected. In contrast, over two million people are living with HIV across the country.

With continued investment in healthcare and community awareness, JISACA is hopeful that the virus can be completely wiped out from the state within the next five years.

It’s a big goal — but Jigawa is determined to lead the way.