Kebbi Residents Urged To End HIV/AIDS Stigma, Champions Prevention

National Orientation Agency (NOA), Kebbi State Directorate, has called on the residents to recommit to critical prevention practices and eliminate the pervasive stigma associated with HIV/AIDS on World AIDS Day.

In his address, the state director of NOA, Kebbi Directorate, underscored the importance of sustained prevention and compassionate community support. “On this World AIDS Day, we must look beyond the treatment success stories and focus intensely on two pillars: sustained prevention and compassionate community support,” he stated.

The agency called on the public to continue and intensify established prevention practices, including consistent and correct use of protective measures, voluntary counselling and testing, and reducing behaviours that increase exposure to the virus.

A significant focus of the NOA Kebbi campaign this year is the eradication of stigma and discrimination. “Stigma is not just an attitude; it is a public health crisis,” the Director emphasised. “When fear of judgment drives individuals into hiding, it sabotages our prevention efforts and denies people access to life-saving care.”

The NOA Kebbi State Directorate pledged to continue its extensive public enlightenment campaigns across all local government areas, utilising community structures and traditional channels to disseminate accurate information about HIV transmission, modern treatment options, and the necessity of creating a supportive environment for all.

“We implore all citizens, religious leaders, and community heads in Kebbi to stop the stigma and discrimination now. Let us embrace empathy, confidentiality, and support, recognising that people living with HIV/AIDS deserve dignity and equal opportunities,” the director urged.