The Kwara State Government has unveiled the Adolescents and Youth-Friendly Centre (AYFC) at the Children’s Specialist Hospital, Ilorin, signaling a commendable collaboration between the government and implementing partners for health development.
Deputy Governor Mr Kayode Alabi emphasised that HIV/AIDS is not a death sentence, declaring the achievable goal of zero cases in Kwara.
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Asserting legislative support, Rasaq Owolabi, Chairman of the House of Assembly Committee on Health and Environment, pledged to advocate for increased budgetary allocations to ensure optimal functioning of the Kwara State Agency for the Control of AIDS (KWASACA) and AYFC.
Commissioner for Health Dr Amina El-Imam lauded the AYFC’s establishment as a crucial initiative to protect vulnerable young people from vices.
Despite reduced HIV/AIDS cases, she advocated for a multi-stakeholder approach to achieve zero cases.
Meanwhile, Dr Salim Alabi, Executive Secretary of KWASACA, hailed the AYFC as proof of successful collaboration between the government and implementing partners, a strategic move in responding to the needs of Kwara’s youths.
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Similarly, Nike Kehinde, State Team Lead of the Centre for Clinical Care and Clinical Research (CCCRN), commended the government’s commitment to providing an enabling environment for the AYFC.
She expressed joy at the impending signing of the state’s Sustainability Plan, signaling readiness to progress without external partners.
This facility stands as a testament to the collective dedication to nurturing a safe space where adolescents and youths can access comprehensive healthcare, education, and support in the ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS.
