Oyo Government Seeks Deepened Partnership & Accountability in HIV Response

The government of Oyo State has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the HIV response by deepening partnerships, enhancing accountability mechanisms and further aligning programmes with community needs. Speaking at a stakeholder workshop, officials from the Oyo State Agency for the Control of AIDS (OYSACA) and other health-agencies emphasised the shift from donor-dependence to state-ownership of HIV programming.

The workshop, which brought together ministry officials, development partners, civil society organisations and community leaders, focused on the 2025–2027 HIV/AIDS Strategic Plan. A key objective is to embed HIV prevention, care and treatment services into routine health-care delivery and improve tracking of both performance and funds. The Health Commissioner noted that despite funding challenges, the state is committed to integrating HIV-services across all levels of care and prioritising transparency in resource use.

Partnerships were highlighted as central to the effort. OYSACA’s chairman called for stronger collaboration with local governments, healthcare NGOs, private-sector actors and faith-based organisations to reach underserved areas. He stressed that the era of programmes being driven solely by external funding is ending; state and community-led systems must now take charge to ensure sustainability.

On accountability, speakers proposed establishing a multi-stakeholder oversight committee, public-reporting of key indicators, and community feedback mechanisms to hold agencies to account. They emphasised that accurate data, regular audits and stakeholder access to information are vital to achieving epidemic control and making every naira count.

In closing remarks, the state government reiterated its ambition to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Oyo by 2030, aligning with national targets. They urged all partners to commit to measurable action, not just declarations, and to pivot their efforts to results, impact and local ownership.