Mirian Gom 
ABUJA, Nigeria – Stakeholders call for Nigeria to take full ownership of its HIV response, reduce dependence on foreign donors, and expand local manufacturing of essential medicines and supplies.
They made the call on Thursday during a media engagement organised by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) ahead of the 2025 World AIDS Day commemoration in Abuja.
World AIDS Day, marked each year on December 1, raises awareness and reinforces global solidarity against HIV/AIDS.
The President of the Network of People Living With HIV/AIDS in Nigeria, Abdulkadir Ibrahim, says it is time for the country to lead its response. “It is high time for us to concentrate and take ownership… our health system must leave no one behind,” he says. He warns that declining foreign assistance, including recent U.S. policy shifts, poses long-term risks.
Despite exemptions for some HIV activities, he says prevention programmes were significantly affected. “What is important is ensuring all achievements and gains are sustained,” he adds.
Ibrahim stresses the need for modern treatment options, including injectables, and stronger retention systems to support patients who miss appointments or drop out of care.
Faith-based advocate Amber Erinmwinhe calls for unified action among the media, community leaders, and religious groups to address stigma and promote accurate information.
AHF says its new Wellness Centres in Abuja and Benue will support young people amid rising STIs and expand collaboration with universities.
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