Stakeholders in Nigeria have been urged to renew their commitment to the global fight against HIV/AIDS and stand united in the pursuit of ending the epidemic within Nigeria’s borders.
The call was made by a CSO, Development Communications DevComs as the world marks the 35th annual World AIDS Day on December 1, 2023.
Themed “Led communities lead” this year’s World AIDS Day serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need to address health disparities and work collectively to achieve the ambitious targets set forth by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS).
In the late 1990s and 2000s, Nigeria, recognising the gravity of the HIV/AIDS challenge, intensified its efforts to curb the spread of the virus, enhance access to treatment, and eliminate stigma and discrimination associated with the disease.
These entail initiatives of the Nigerian government in collaboration with various stakeholders on:
DevComs advocates for increased Testing and Awareness calling that the government should continuously scale up HIV testing and counseling services to reach more communities, emphasising the importance of early detection and treatment.
“There should be accessible treatment stressing that While there is commitment to ensuring that everyone living with HIV has access to life-saving antiretroviral therapy (ART) there is need for increased efforts to expand treatment centers and improve the availability of essential medications.
“On Prevention Programs, there should be continuous investment in comprehensive prevention programs, including education campaigns, distribution of condoms, and support for high-risk populations, to reduce the number of new HIV infections is of utmost importance, especially among the young generation of Nigerians, the GenZ and others.
“Also, Community Engagement in Recognizing the crucial role of communities in the fight against HIV/AIDS, involvement of communities, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Academia, Faith Based Organizations (FBOs) and Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) in the design and implementation of HIV/AIDS programs should continue.
“In combating the stigma, the country should not relent in efforts to eliminate discrimination and stigmatization associated with HIV/AIDS, dispelling myths and misconceptions with continuous public awareness campaigns to promote understanding and empathy towards those affected and affected by the virus.
“In commemorating this year’s World AIDS Day, government officials, healthcare professionals, development partners, activists, and citizens should come together to participate in various events, including seminars, workshops, and awareness walks across the country.”
According to DevComs, “We align with the Programme Coordinator for Henry Jackson Foundation Medical Research Institute (HJFMRI), Dooshima Uganden, who stated that it is important to focus on the key and Vulnerable Populations in the country and communications must begin to target these vulnerable groups.”
DevComs also urged all Nigerians to join hands in creating an inclusive and supportive environment for those affected by HIV/AIDS, emphasizing the importance of unity in the fight against this global health challenge.
Mrs Omobonike Adebayo, DevComs Programme Officer, Communication, called on all stakeholders to “stand resolute in their commitment to achieving the UNAIDS targets while ensuring a future free from the burden of HIV/AIDS for all citizens with targeted inclusiveness and to ensure that all individuals and families are covered wherever their locations.
World AIDS Day, observed on December 1 each year, is an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, show their support for those living with HIV, and commemorate those who have died from AIDS-related illnesses.
The day also aims to raise awareness about the importance of HIV prevention, treatment, and care as contained in a statement signed by Marvellous Fagbenle, Programme Officer.
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