BREAKING NEWS: "NIGERIA URGED TO TAKE THE REINS: LOCAL MANUFACTURING OF HIV MEDICATIONS KEY TO SUSTAINABLE RESPONSE" BY ABIODUN MOSHOOD O.


Stakeholders in the fight against HIV/AIDS are calling on the Nigerian government to take ownership of its HIV response, advocating for local manufacturing of HIV medications and supplies to ensure sustainability. This appeal was made at a media engagement organized by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) ahead of the 2025 World AIDS Day commemoration. With international funding dwindling, Nigerian stakeholders are emphasizing the need for local control and sustainability of HIV programs. Abdulkadir Ibrahim, President of the Network of People Living With HIV/AIDS in Nigeria, stressed that Nigeria must take charge of its HIV response, ensuring that its health system leaves no one behind, including people living with HIV. "HIV should not be treated as a standalone disease; it will help us to reduce the level of stigma, and that is people living with HIV are supposed to be recognised as recipients of care like every other person, and go to the hospital like every other person," Ibrahim said.

In addition, the recent reduction in international funding has posed significant challenges, with the U.S. government's new policy shift drastically reducing funding for health interventions. Despite this, stakeholders are determined to sustain progress and ensure that HIV awareness and treatment remain a priority. Taofeek Adeleye, Senior Manager of Prevention Programme at AHF, advocated for stronger media involvement in HIV prevention, consistent public education, and correct information to counter misinformation. "Prevention messaging must be constant, just like religious reminders, and the media must play a major role in educating the public," he said.

Also, the AHF has opened youth-focused Wellness Centres in Abuja and Benue to expand Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) prevention, testing, and treatment services, aiming to provide safe, youth-friendly spaces for young Nigerians to receive timely care and comprehensive sexual health support. Dr. Echey Ijezie, AHF Nigeria Country Programme Director, emphasized the importance of community involvement, saying, "The work to end HIV/AIDS is not over, which is evident by the 1.3 million new infections occurring globally each year." As Nigeria prepares to commemorate World AIDS Day on December 1, stakeholders are urging the government, media, and communities to come together to combat stigma, misinformation, and inequality in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Nigerians are urged to take ownership of their health, get tested, and access treatment. The media is encouraged to amplify issues around HIV/AIDS, STIs, and other health challenges. Communities, faith leaders, and stakeholders must work together to promote awareness, prevention, and care. Join the movement to end HIV/AIDS. Get tested, get treated, and let's work together to create a stigma-free Nigeria!

© ABIODUN MOSHOOD O.

-Nigeria.

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