Ikeja: The Federal Government of Nigeria on Tuesday initiated the Zero Stigma Campaign and Sensitisation Against Discrimination of People Living with HIV (PLWHIV) in Ikeja Local Government Area of Lagos State. The campaign is a significant step towards addressing HIV-related stigma and promoting inclusivity.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the initiative is spearheaded by the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) in collaboration with GEDRITE Nigeria Ltd., the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), and the Improved Sexual Health and Right Advocacy Initiative (ISHRAI). This coordinated effort aims to create a safer environment for individuals living with HIV and support Nigeria’s commitment to ending AIDS as a public health threat.
Dr Folakemi Animashaun, CEO of LSACA, highlighted the campaign’s achievements thus far, noting that stigma and discrimination are major obstacles to HIV testing and treatment. Sustained advocacy and community engagement are vital for achieving epidemic control.
In her Keynote Address, Dr Temitope Ilori, Director-General of NACA, underscored the national zero-stigma agenda and the collective responsibility required to eliminate discrimination against people living with HIV. Ilori was represented by Mr Raheem Mohammed at the event.
The campaign’s Day One activities included a road walk and awareness rally from the Ikeja Secretariat to Ipodo Market, aiming to draw public attention to the campaign’s zero-tolerance stance on discrimination. Additionally, a sensitisation visit to Oregun Senior High School was conducted, where around 250 students were educated on HIV basics, prevention, and the importance of non-discrimination.
Key stakeholders, including Dr Oluwafemi Omololu, Permanent Secretary, and a representative of the Regent of Ikeja, delivered goodwill messages. The campaign was officially launched with a ribbon-cutting ceremony by the Executive Chairman of Ikeja LGA, Mr Akeem Daudu, who, along with NEPWHAN Coordinator Mr Patrick Akpan and ASHWAN Coordinator Mr Kadiri Oluseyi, reaffirmed their commitment to promoting inclusion and stigma-free communities.
NAN also reported that prior to the campaign’s commencement, advocacy engagements were conducted to inform and mobilise relevant stakeholders. These visits included meetings with the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Iya Oloja, the Regent of Ikeja, and other traditional leaders, securing community entry and stakeholder buy-in.
The campaign will continue with advocacy, awareness, and community engagement activities, focusing on reducing HIV-related stigma, promoting accurate information, and enhancing access to HIV prevention and testing services.