The Director-General of the Taraba State AIDS Control Agency (TACA), Dr. Bako Ali Istifanus, has announced that more than 50,310 people living with HIV in the state are currently receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART).

Speaking in Jalingo during the commemoration of World AIDS Day, Istifanus emphasized that sustaining treatment, expanding access to services, and combating stigma remain central to the state’s HIV/AIDS response strategy.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, he acknowledged that while challenges—including temporary interruptions in donor-funded programmes—persist, Taraba is making steady progress.

According to Istifanus, Taraba State currently records an HIV prevalence of 2.9 percent, the highest in the North-East region, based on the 2018 National AIDS Indicator Survey (NAIS). Although no recent nationwide survey has confirmed a decline, weekly community reports indicate consistent improvements.

“The power of our response lies in partnership, resilience, and innovation. To truly overcome disruptions, we must maintain our investments and deepen community engagement. Every person, regardless of age, gender, or background, deserves access to life-saving services,” he said.

He praised Governor Agbu Kefas for creating a supportive environment through his Five Point Agenda, which prioritizes strengthening the health sector alongside security, economic revitalization, education reforms, and social welfare.

Istifanus also commended the Ministry of Health, implementing partners, community-based organizations, civil society groups, and the State Agency for the Control of AIDS (SASCP) for their collective contributions to recent gains in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

As Taraba joined the world in marking World AIDS Day, the TACA DG urged residents and partners to renew their commitment to achieving an AIDS-free state, adding:

“Let us celebrate our achievements, reflect on our challenges, and strengthen our resolve for a Taraba State—and a Nigeria—free from the threat of HIV/AIDS. Together, we can ensure no one is left behind and that every person lives with dignity.”