House of Representatives to Probe N62bn HIV/AIDS Fund Utilization.

House of Representatives to Probe N62bn HIV/AIDS Fund Utilization.

In a recent development, the House Committee on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, Leprosy, and Malaria has committed to investigating the utilization and impact of the N62bn Federal Government intervention funds allocated to the HIV/AIDS control program. The probe also extends to other donor funds contributed by Global Funds during the tenure of the Muhammadu Buhari-led administration.

Expressing disappointment, the committee noted the absence of the national coordinators of the National Malaria Control Programme and the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programmes during a recent fact-finding mission. Committee Chairman Amobi Ogah conveyed optimism about the country's fight against these diseases, citing achievements by the National Agency for the Control of AIDS under the leadership of Dr. Aliyu Gambo.

During a visit to the agency, the committee expressed dismay over data and statistics related to the prevalence of HIV/AIDS across states. Members urged increased awareness, particularly in rural communities.

Despite pledging support for NACA programs, the committee voiced displeasure at the absence of the Coordinators of the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme and the National Malaria Control Programme during the scheduled visit. Chairman Ogah emphasized that heads of government agencies and institutions, not politicians, are the major issues facing the nation.

Statistics from the National HIV/AIDS Impact Survey conducted by NACA revealed alarming rates, indicating that in many states, two out of ten and three out of fifteen persons sampled had contracted the deadly HIV/AIDS disease. The committee's investigation aims to shed light on the management and outcomes of the substantial funds allocated to combat these critical health challenges.