The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Nigeria has warned that the global HIV/AIDS battle remains far from won, citing 1.3 million new infections recorded worldwide in 2024.
This is contained in a statement by AHF Nigeria’s senior advocacy and marketing manager, Steve Aborishade, on Thursday in Lokoja, ahead of World AIDS Day.
According to the statement, AHF Nigeria will hold a commemorative event at Keffi, Nasarawa, on December 1.
“The event is to emphasise that the work to end HIV/AIDS is not over, which is evident by the 1.3 million new infections occurring globally each year.
“It will promote awareness, prevention, testing, and care while showing solidarity with those impacted by HIV/AIDS in the community and beyond. World AIDS Day is observed annually on December 1.
“Despite decades of progress in the fight against HIV, around 40 million people worldwide are living with the virus, with women and girls representing more than half of those affected.
“Stigma and discrimination continue to prevent many individuals from accessing essential care, while key populations face significant barriers to treatment.
“This World AIDS Day event will highlight these ongoing challenges and reinforce the importance of keeping HIV/AIDS at the forefront of national and global public health efforts.”
AHF stated that the Keffi event will feature a road walk from the city centre to Nasarawa State University, where health talks, free condoms, and educational flyers will be distributed.
It added that students from the university, the Red Cross Club, CSOs, CBOs, and traditional dancers will partake in the event, underscoring community involvement.
“In Abuja, AHF Nigeria will engage media partners, NACA, NASCP, NEPWHAN, and ASHWAN to discuss the critical role of journalism in shaping public perception and combating stigma,” it stated.
Echey Ijezie, AHF Nigeria country programme director, highlighted newly opened Wellness Centres in Abuja and Benue, targeting adolescents and young people.
‘’AHF Nigeria recently opened a Wellness Centre in both Abuja and Benue, as a response to the rising waves of STIs among adolescents and young people.
“Our decision to programme for this population is the reason we are partnering with the Keffi state university to expand access for students and empower other youths to take charge of their health.
“Africa has made great strides against HIV but rising infections, especially among adolescents and young women, remind us that the fight isn’t over.”
Martin Matabishi, AHF Africa Bureau chief, said: “Africa has made great strides against HIV but rising infections, especially among adolescents and young women, remind us that the fight isn’t over.
“To overcome disruption and truly transform the AIDS response, we must embrace inclusive health policies and promote combination prevention.
“We must empower and meaningfully collaborate with communities to lead the fight against stigma and inequality.”
Mr Matabishi stressed that high prices of long‑acting injectables keep them out of reach, urging pharmaceutical companies to prioritise people over profit.
“World AIDS Day is a vital platform for advocates to celebrate progress, and honour those lost.
“It is also a platform to urge governments to pledge more resources and political support to end HIV/AIDS. This World AIDS Day reminds us that it’s Not Over.”
AHF is the world’s largest non-profit HIV/AIDS healthcare provider, delivering medical services and advocacy to more than 2.5 million people across 50 countries, including Nigeria.
(NAN)