 The Initiative for Grassroot Advancement (INGRA) has partnered with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to combat the rise of tuberculosis in Kogi State and address the stigmatization of HIV/AIDS patients. During a recent awareness campaign in Kogi State, INGRA’s Executive Director, Hamza Aliyu, represented by Program Officer Abdulfatai Ayuba, emphasized the importance of educating communities about HIV/AIDS to reduce stigma. The campaign, in collaboration with the National Tuberculosis Unified Campaign and the Medical and Health Community Development Support of NYSC, aims to identify and support abused individuals, connecting them to caregivers.
Aliyu highlighted that misinformation about HIV/AIDS contributes to stigma and called for increased education. INGRA has sponsored a bill to prevent HIV/AIDS-based discrimination and protect the rights and dignity of affected individuals. The bill, passed by the state House of Assembly, awaits the governor’s assent. The law, once enacted, will penalize discriminatory remarks against HIV/AIDS survivors and enable them to seek legal redress. Aliyu urged swift governmental action on the bill and encouraged the public to view HIV/AIDS like any other disease, not as a death sentence or punishment. Katherine Odok, presenter of the "Mama Pikin" program on Grace FM Radio, moderated the event, urging NYSC members to be change agents by raising awareness about HIV/AIDS and its stigma. She also advised survivors to maintain a positive outlook and report any discrimination to relevant authorities. Source: INDEPENDENTNG
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