By Onilede Titi Faith
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has approved ₦45 million for the State Agency for the Control of AIDS (OYSACA), to strengthen efforts in curbing HIV/AIDS across the state.
The announcement was made on Thursday by his deputy, Bayo Lawal, during the inauguration of OYSACA Ambassadors at the agency’s conference room in Agodi, Ibadan.
According to a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, the funds, coupled with recent approval for HIV test kits, are intended to enhance OYSACA’s capacity in tackling the epidemic.
The newly inaugurated ambassadors: Saka Balogun, Ayo Ladigbolu, Mutiat Ladoja, Rasaq Adeleke, Wale Saminu, and Shina Peller were selected to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and support government initiatives against HIV/AIDS.
Governor Makinde said, “The inauguration of these ambassadors marks a significant milestone in our collective journey towards a future where HIV/AIDS is no longer a public health threat. As ambassadors, you are not just representatives; you are champions of change, voices for the voiceless, beacons of hope, and catalysts for a more compassionate society.”
He emphasized that health remains a top priority under his administration, highlighting its inclusion as a key pillar of the Omituntun 2.0 sustainable development programme.
Earlier, OYSACA Chairman Gbola Adetunji commended the governor’s proactive approach, noting that the funding will expand the agency’s reach to high-risk populations and deliver life-saving services more effectively.
