WAD 2024: Fight Against HIV/AIDS Not Over Yet, Says AHF

In recognition of World AIDS Day 2024, December 1, global non-profit organization, Aids Health Foundation Nigeria has restated that that the fight against HIV/AIDS is not over yet until it is defeated.

The Foundation said the commemoration is to signify that “It’s Not Over” in the fight against HIV/AIDS, adding that there is need for more awareness, promote prevention, testing, and treatment, and rally support to all those affected by HIV/AIDS in Nigeria and globally.

In a statement sent to LEADERSHIP,  AHF, Advocacy & Marketing Manager, Steve Aborisade said to mark global event, the Foundation will host a Comprehensive Sexuality Education(CSE) session in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state, on December 2, where free AHF branded condoms will be distributed with detailed education on how to use to the people.

The event will include a strong radio programming across the seven states of (Abuja, Anambra, Benue, Cross river, Kogi, Nasarawa) and Akwa Ibom, which also hosts the main public ceremony – as youth groups will be displaying their fabulous dancing and singing skills in the presence of key Civil Society actors and government officials.

‘’In Nigeria, AHF is particularly reinforcing the need to embrace Comprehensive age-appropriate Sexuality Education (CSE), to empower adolescents and young people with skills and knowledge to negotiate safer sexual behaviors, with the population being the most at risk to STIs including HIV/AIDS, said Dr. Echey Ijezie, AHF Nigeria, Country Program Director (CPD).

“On this World AIDS Day, we emphasize the urgent need to enhance HIV prevention efforts, particularly for young women and adolescent girls who are at significant risk, with around 4,000 new HIV infections recorded globally each week,” stated Dr. Penninah Iutung, AHF Africa Bureau Chief.

“With the introduction of innovative prevention tools—like the Dapivirine vaginal ring to Lenacapvir, PrEP, and PEP—our ability to halt new transmissions has never been greater. Nonetheless, we must also prioritize condoms, which are both effective and affordable yet still under-promoted. Furthermore, increased funding for HIV/AIDS, community-led initiatives, and favorable policies to fight stigma and discrimination remain crucial for expanding access to prevention and treatment, especially for at-risk groups and in the global effort to control AIDS.”

According to UNAIDS, despite decades of progress, around 40 million people globally are living with HIV, more than half of whom are women and girls, with approximately 1.3 million new infections reported each year. Stigma and discrimination continue to keep individuals from seeking essential care, and many key populations face substantial barriers to accessing treatment. This World AIDS Day event will spotlight these challenges, emphasizing the need to keep HIV/AIDS a priority on national and global public health agendas.

World AIDS Day serves as a vital platform for HIV/AIDS advocates to acknowledge the progress made, remember those we have lost to AIDS-related illnesses and those who carry on the fight, and call on governments worldwide to commit the necessary resources and political support to end HIV/AIDS. On this World AIDS Day, we’re reminded: It’s Not Over.