Ending HIV starts with ending stigma
The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has warned that persistent stigma is undermining Nigeria’s fight against HIV/AIDS, keeping millions from accessing treatment and support.
Dr. Temitope Ilori, NACA Director-General, highlighted the issue at a Zero Stigma Sensitisation event in Ikeja, Lagos, stressing that fear of rejection, job loss, and social exclusion prevents many from getting tested and receiving treatment. Lagos alone has 1.3 million people living with HIV, making the state a top priority for awareness and care.
The campaign, in partnership with LSACA, GEDERITE, and ISHRAI, aims to promote accurate knowledge, encourage inclusion, and strengthen community support systems. NACA called on religious and traditional leaders, families, health workers, and the media to join efforts to combat discrimination.
Dr. Folakemi Animashaun, LSACA CEO, noted that legal protections are being updated to close gaps and fight stigma in workplaces, schools, and communities. Meanwhile, Monica Obi of the Network of People Living with HIV urged collective action, highlighting that discrimination even drives pregnant women away from treatment, raising mother-to-child transmission risks.
The message is clear: HIV is not a death sentence, and stigma has no place in society.
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