Eradicating HIV/AIDS, stigma: Mrs. Otti urges sex workers to give up lifestyle to get empowerment.

Stephanie Clems, Umuahia

Wife of Abia state governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti has continued to champions fight against HIV/AIDS Stigma in the state.

Mrs. Otti, on Tuesday met with persons living with HIV and Aids under the auspices of Network of persons with HIV and AIDS and key population group at her country home in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa south LGA of Abia state.

She reaffirmed her commitment to improving the lives of people living with HIV/AIDS through advocacy, support, and empowerment.

She disclosed in that meeting her resolve to combat stigma and provide hope for affected individuals, saying that “HIV is not a death sentence” while urging those affected to embrace treatment and reject societal judgment.

In her words, “I am encouraged by the progress we are making to suppress the spread of the disease, but we must do more to prevent new infections and ensure a stigma-free society.

“This administration is dedicated to supporting every group in Abia State, including those living with HIV/AIDS.”

Mrs. Otti also announced plans to collaborate with critical stakeholders in order to domesticate laws prohibiting discrimination and stigmatisation of people living with HIV/AIDS in Abia state.

To show more commitments to the course of controlling the spread of HIV/AIDS, she called on women and youth engaged in commercial sex work to seek alternative opportunities available for their means of livelihood.

She promised to initiate skill acquisition programs to empower and uplift them if they gave up such work.

Dr. Uloaku Emma, Director General of the Abia State Agency for the Control of AIDS, revealed that 46,788 individuals are currently undergoing treatment for HIV/AIDS in the state.

The DG highlighted some of the agency’s commitment to eradicating stigma as a critical step in achieving zero new infections.

Representatives from NEPWHAN and the KP group, including National Secretary Mr. Joseph Anosike and State Coordinator Mr. Agbai Okali, expressed deep gratitude for Mrs. Otti’s intervention.

They emphasized the importance of sustainable support which include job creation and continuous sensitization in addressing the root causes of vulnerability and controlling the virus.

The wife of the governor also presented some stimulus packages and cash gift to those present at the meeting.