A Statement by The Deputy Chief Whip, Hon Obiajulu Princess Ugwu, Enugu State House of Assembly, On the Occasion Of 2023 World Aids Day
Today, December 1, 2023, signifies a significant day for us to commemorate and extend our support to our parents, siblings, and loved ones who are bravely facing the challenges of living with HIV/AIDS.
This designated day by the United Nations aims to inspire and empower those affected by the disease to maintain hope in their daily battle against the excruciating pain, discomfort, and inconvenience it brings.
According to a recently published report in 2023, Enugu State currently has 3,736 individuals living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV), with a 1.9% prevalence rate among individuals aged 15-49 years.
It is truly encouraging to observe that the Enugu State government is effectively combating the prevalence rate of this viral disease, which stood at 5.1% in 2010 and 4.9% in 2017.
However, the government will tirelessly strive to ensure that Enugu State becomes entirely free from the burden of HIV/AIDS by allocating all necessary resources, funds, and medications to expedite this achievement.
In our capacity as lawmakers, we are committed to prioritizing the welfare of our fellow citizens living with HIV/AIDS in the 2024 budget allocation. Additionally, we will enact legislation to shield them from stigmatization and discrimination.
While urging those afflicted with the virus to consistently seek medical assistance and diligently adhere to antiretroviral treatment, I also implore others to undergo testing in order to be aware of their HIV status and prevent transmission of the disease.
We cannot afford to regress to the early days of this pandemic when HIV/AIDS was viewed as a death sentence. It is no surprise that the Igbos termed it “Obiri na àjà ọcha” (a white man’s ailment).
Together, we can successfully overcome the remaining obstacles in this fight, continue saving lives, and ensure that we never revisit the dark days of the HIV/AIDS crisis.
Hon. Obiajulu Princess Ugwu,
Deputy Chief Whip,
Enugu State House of Assembly.
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Hon princess beautiful in and out