Juliet Jacob 
AUJA, Nigeria – The Society for Family Health (SFH) Nigeria says widespread stigma and poor access to compassionate healthcare, rather than drug use alone, remain the biggest drivers of illness and death among people who inject drugs.
In a statement issued Monday, SFH warned that this marginalised group continues to face high risks of HIV, Hepatitis and Tuberculosis because they are often pushed into unsafe, hidden drug-use environments.
According to the organisation, harm reduction remains a life-saving strategy. “People who inject drugs are among the highest-risk groups, yet the least likely to receive humane, evidence-based support,” the statement said.
SFH outlined ongoing interventions, including Needle and Syringe Programmes (NSPs), distribution of sterile injecting equipment, condoms, lubricants, personalised counselling, and linkage to HIV testing, Hepatitis and TB treatment. Clients are also connected to opioid substitution therapy to support long-term recovery.
Since 2024, the organisation’s gender-sensitive programme has reached 104,981 individuals, providing tools that prevent infections and restore dignity. “Each kit, each counselling session, is a step toward safety and a second chance,” SFH said.
The organisation stressed that harm reduction is not an endorsement of drug use, but a proven public health approach rooted in evidence and human rights. It warned that Nigeria cannot win its fight against HIV, Hepatitis or TB while vulnerable drug users remain excluded from care.
“We cannot stop these epidemics by pushing people into the shadows,” SFH added, calling for expanded services, reduced stigma and better integration of drug-use interventions into national health policy.
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Korede Abdullah 
Chukwu Obinna 
Oluwatobi Adu 
Otamere Gladness