Korede Abdullah in Lagos
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has reaffirmed its dedication to supporting the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) in raising awareness and combating stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS in Nigeria.
During a courtesy visit by NACA’s Director-General, Dr. Temitope Ilori, to NOA’s headquarters, NOA’s Director-General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, emphasized the importance of public sensitization in addressing the epidemic.
He noted that while fear-based communication was once effective, a new approach is necessary to prevent stigma and misinformation. “HIV/AIDS should be seen as a manageable health condition, similar to hypertension and diabetes, rather than a death sentence,” he stated.
Mallam Issa-Onilu encouraged NACA to leverage NOA’s extensive network to amplify campaigns on HIV prevention, treatment, and anti-discrimination efforts.
Acknowledging the decline in international funding, particularly from the U.S. government, he urged NACA to explore sustainable local strategies.
He assured NOA’s full support in achieving a well-informed, stigma-free society. “We must change the narrative and ensure that people understand that HIV is not a death sentence but a condition that can be managed with proper care,” he reiterated.
Dr. Ilori, in response, praised NOA’s role in national development and stressed the need for stronger collaboration to enhance Nigeria’s HIV/AIDS response.
She highlighted the misconception among the youth, who, due to the success of treatment programs, underestimate the disease’s presence.
“Despite over two million Nigerians living with HIV, new infections continue to rise, especially among young people and children,” she warned.
She emphasized the urgency of improving public awareness and behavioural change communication to counter misinformation and promote prevention.
