Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has approved N45 million to strengthen the fight against HIV/AIDS across the state.

The governor, represented by his deputy Bayo Lawal, announced the funding on Thursday during the inauguration of Oyo State Agency for the Control of AIDS (OYSACA) Ambassadors at the agency’s conference room in Agodi, Ibadan.

In a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, Makinde said the funds, alongside the recent approval for the purchase of HIV test kits, will bolster the agency’s capacity to curb the spread of the disease.

While inaugurating the ambassadors; Saka Balogun, Ayo Ladigbolu, Mutiat Ladoja, Rasaq Adeleke, Wale Saminu, and Shina Peller, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to public health and reducing the prevalence of HIV/AIDS in the state.

“The inauguration of these ambassadors marks a significant milestone in our collective journey towards a future where HIV/AIDS is no longer a public health threat,” Makinde said.

Makinde charged the new ambassadors to champion awareness, fight stigma, and support those affected.

“As an ambassador, you are not just a representative; you are the champions of change, the voices for those who have been silent, the beacon of hope for those in darkness,” he said, adding that their roles would “inspire truth, promote education, and ultimately save lives.”

Commending OYSACA’s initiatives, the governor stressed the importance of community engagement in tackling HIV/AIDS.

“Your efforts will undoubtedly contribute to reducing stigma, increasing awareness, and ensuring everyone has access to HIV prevention, treatment, and care,” he said.

The Oyo State government, he added, has made health one of its central pillars since his first term, now reinforced under the Omituntun 2.0 development programme.

Earlier, OYSACA chairman Gbola Adetunji praised the governor’s proactive stance, noting that the funds would enable the agency to reach high-risk groups and deliver life-saving services more effectively.

The state government also announced the release of N600 million compensation to property owners affected by the ongoing Circular Road project in Ibadan, with the fourth batch of N200 million to be released Thursday.

The governor promised that the payment of the total sum of N1 billion compensation would be completed soon.