The Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN) has expressed deep concern over the alarming number of children living with HIV in Nigeria. According to their statement, out of an estimated 160,000 children living with HIV in the country, only 45,000 are currently receiving treatment. This disparity highlights a critical gap in providing essential healthcare services to vulnerable children affected by HIV/AIDS.
During the close-out ceremony of their HIV intervention program, implemented in collaboration with the World Council of Churches (WCC) in Abuja, CCN emphasized the urgent need for intensified efforts from the government and other stakeholders. They stressed the importance of combating the spread of HIV/AIDS among children and improving access to treatment and care.
The President of CCN, Most Rev. David Onuoha, represented by Archbishop Peter Ogunmuyiwa, underscored the organization’s commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those affected by HIV/AIDS. He called upon NGOs and government agencies to join forces in addressing this pressing issue, despite some progress in preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV.
Ms. Gracias Ross, representing the WCC, echoed CCN’s concerns and reiterated their commitment to supporting Nigeria in the fight against HIV/AIDS. She highlighted the broader impact of HIV/AIDS in Nigeria, affecting millions of people and emphasizing the need for comprehensive support systems, especially for vulnerable children.
In conclusion, Rev. Dr. Evans Onyemara, the General Secretary of CCN, acknowledged the support of WCC and emphasized the success stories from their intervention programs across various states. The collaborative efforts between CCN and WCC underscore the critical role of partnerships in addressing the HIV/AIDS crisis in Nigeria and providing essential support to affected communities, particularly children.
