The Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN) has raised concerns about the high number of children living with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in Nigeria. The council reported that approximately 160,000 children are living with HIV in the country, with only 45,000 receiving treatment.
The CCN urged the government and other stakeholders to intensify efforts to curb the spread of HIV/AIDS among children. This call was made during the closing ceremony of an HIV intervention program implemented in collaboration with the World Council of Churches (WCC) in Abuja.
Representing the CCN President, Most Rev. David Onuoha, Archbishop Peter Ogunmuyiwa stated, “Our mission is to identify with the needy and less privileged, and to make a positive impact on their lives. Our efforts have been enriching and impactful.” He emphasized the council’s commitment to combating the HIV epidemic and urged NGOs and government agencies to join their efforts.
While acknowledging some progress in preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV, Archbishop Ogunmuyiwa stressed that much work remains. He highlighted the unacceptable statistic that, out of 160,000 children living with HIV in Nigeria, only 45,000 are receiving treatment.
Ms. Gracias Ross, a representative of the World Council of Churches, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in the fight against HIV/AIDS. She emphasized the church’s role in providing support for children affected by HIV, stating, “We must change things. If these children are alone and don’t have a family, the church has to be their family. This is the calling that we should become the father of the fatherless and fight for the widows and fight for justice.”
The General Secretary of the CCN, Rev. Dr. Evans Onyemara, praised the WCC’s support in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Nigeria and highlighted the success stories from the program’s implementation in several states.
