The Niger State HIV, Gender and Human Rights Response Team has called for increased support from the Niger State Government, development partners and relevant stakeholders to sustain HIV, gender and human rights interventions in the face of declining donor funding.
The call was made during the quarterly meeting of the Response Team held on Monday at the Conference Hall of the Niger State Agency for the Control of AIDS (NGSACA), Mypa Junction, Minna.
Addressing participants, the Director General of the Niger State Agency for the Control of AIDS (NGSACA), Alhaji Umar Ishaq Garba, commended members of the Response Team for their unwavering commitment to advancing the state’s HIV, Gender and Human Rights agenda. He also acknowledged the presence of directors, representatives of the Key Population Secretariat and delegates from relevant ministries.
Alhaji Garba expressed appreciation to development partners, stakeholders, the Ministry of Health, People Living with HIV (PLHIV) and other collaborators for their continued support, noting that their collective contributions have strengthened the state’s HIV response and improved the lives of vulnerable populations.
He, however, stressed the need for greater government ownership, stronger institutional commitment and innovative resource mobilization to ensure the sustainability of HIV, Gender and Human Rights programmes as external funding continues to decline.
The meeting also emphasized the importance of timely submission of comprehensive and accurate reports to the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA). Participants urged all ministries and implementing partners to use the approved reporting templates and submit complete data to enhance programme monitoring, evaluation and accountability.
Members were informed that more than 97 per cent of activities under the Global Fund Cycle 7 had been successfully implemented across the state. However, the Nigeria Police Force, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Nigerian Correctional Service were identified as the remaining institutions yet to be covered, while the National Human Rights Commission was commended for its active participation throughout the implementation process.
Presenting the quarterly human rights report, the Director of the National Human Rights Commission, Niger State, Alhaji Nuhu Muhammad, disclosed that forced marriage remained one of the most prevalent human rights violations recorded during the period, particularly in Bida, Agaie and other local government areas.
He identified inadequate transportation to affected communities as a major challenge hindering prompt intervention and effective support for victims and their families.
Also speaking, the Director of Care and Support, Dr. Mike Onyilo, urged members of the Response Team to intensify their efforts and make prudent use of available resources to ensure the successful implementation of all planned programme activities.
The meeting concluded with participants reaffirming their commitment to strengthening coordination, enhancing advocacy and sustaining progress toward an effective HIV, Gender and Human Rights response in Niger State
