By Musa Peace Affos

In this report, Musa Peace Affos of Rhapsodi Affos Blog examines the growing HIV/AIDS challenge in Taraba State: a story far bigger than the statistics suggest.

The Taraba State AIDS Control Agency (TACA) recently disclosed that 398 deaths from HIV/AIDS were recorded between the second and third quarters of 2025. The agency also reported that over 50,000 people are currently receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) across the state, with 2,674 children and adolescents (0–19 years) and 47,636 adults (20 years and above) on treatment.

Speaking at the 2025 World AIDS Day event in Jalingo, the Taraba State Commissioner of Health, Dr. Buma Gbansheya Bordiya, reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensuring no one is denied access to care and treatment.

Meanwhile, Dr. Bako Ali Istifanus, Director-General of TACA, emphasized that while progress has been made, the state still has significant work to do in reducing infection rates. He noted that sustained investments in prevention, treatment, and community engagement are critical, especially after disruptions caused by the cessation of foreign aid.

Risk, Behaviour and the Reality of Transmission

HIV does not spread randomly many infections are linked to behaviours or life decisions that carry risk, including multiple sexual partners, unprotected sex, and limited awareness of safe practices. This is not a moral judgment, but a reality that underscores the importance of awareness and responsible decision-making.

For young people in Taraba particularly adolescents and young adults: understanding personal risk and the consequences of certain life decisions is crucial. Social pressures, economic challenges, and limited sexual health education can increase exposure, making testing and prevention essential.

The Importance of Testing, Treatment, and Viral Suppression

To combat HIV effectively, communities must:

Know their status through regular testing, especially if sexually active.
Begin treatment immediately if positive, and adhere strictly to ART.
Achieve viral suppression, which not only improves personal health but also prevents transmission to others.

These steps are vital not only for survival but for protecting families, relationships, and communities.

Local Efforts in Taraba
Community-led and professionally guided initiatives complement state efforts. The Centre for Initiative and Development (CFID), led by Mr. Danjuma Adda, a public health scientist and virologist, works to expand access to HIV testing and treatment. While these initiatives are not a replacement for government programs, they help bridge gaps in awareness, testing, and treatment, particularly for underserved populations.

What It Means for Taraba’s Youth and Communities

For young people, this is a call to action:

Get tested regularly: knowledge is power.
Seek treatment promptly if positive, and adhere to ART.
Talk openly about HIV with peers and partners to reduce stigma.

For communities: support, educate, and engage, rather than judge. HIV is a health issue, not a moral failing.

For policymakers: strengthen local health systems, invest in prevention, and partner with professional, community-led initiatives like CFID. Domestic commitment is essential, especially as foreign aid diminishes.

HIV in Taraba will not be defeated by statistics alone. It requires awareness, responsible behaviour, accessible treatment, and community-driven action. Risky behaviours may contribute to infections, but proactive testing, treatment, and social support drive survival, hope, and dignity.

The work of professionals like Dr. Buma Gbansheya Bordiya, Dr. Bako Ali Istifanus, and Mr. Danjuma Adda shows that when science, governance, and community engagement converge, progress is possible. But ultimately, it takes individuals, communities, and governments working together to turn the tide.

HIV remains a challenge, but with awareness, action, and accountability, Taraba can prevent new infections and save lives.