The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) on Tuesday in Abuja urged stakeholders to sustain efforts in controlling the HIV/AIDS epidemic to achieve its complete elimination by 2030.
Gabriel Undelikwo, UNAIDS Nigeria’s Community Support Adviser, made the call during a press conference and candlelight memorial held to honor people lost to HIV/AIDS and reaffirm collective commitment to continued action.
The event, organized by the Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria, formed part of activities marking the 2025 World AIDS Day, highlighting national unity and dedication to sustaining HIV interventions.
The 2025 World AIDS Day theme, “Overcoming Disruptions: Sustaining Nigeria’s HIV Response,” underscores the nation’s commitment to maintaining progress despite challenges, ensuring effective prevention, treatment, and care services reach communities nationwide.
Undelikwo noted that the latest UNAIDS report confirmed the world could end AIDS by 2030 if human rights are protected, particularly for people living with HIV and those most at risk.
He stressed that Nigeria must stay on the right path by sustaining its HIV response, expanding rights-based services, and preventing new infections among children to achieve the goal of ending AIDS by 2030.
He added that the memorial symbolized remembrance, solidarity, and hope, honoring lives lost while reinforcing determination to fight stigma, support affected individuals, advance treatment, and continue collective efforts to end AIDS.
Society for Family Health (SFH) Managing Director Dr. Omokhudu Idogho urged stronger collaboration among stakeholders, emphasizing that Nigeria must maintain momentum until HIV is no longer considered a public health emergency.
He highlighted that for three decades, SFH had provided leadership, compassion, and dedication in Nigeria’s HIV response, strengthening communities, expanding services, and empowering individuals through stigma reduction and sustained support.
He added that through innovation, resilience, and strong partnerships, the organization has transformed HIV prevention, treatment, and care nationwide, ensuring hope guides the experiences of millions rather than fear or stigma.
Winifred-Abbo Agogo of the Global Fund’s coordinating body said the theme aligned with Nigeria’s renewed hope agenda, prioritizing health, human development, inclusive growth, and stronger systems to ensure access to HIV services.
She urged communities to take the lead in HIV education, testing, treatment support, and advocacy, speaking out against stigma and discrimination while partnering with government and civil society to reach vulnerable populations.
