The Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria (IHVN) joined the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) and other stakeholders to commemorate World AIDS Day 2025, themed “Overcoming Disruptions: Sustaining Nigeria’s HIV Response.”
This year’s observance highlighted the collective responsibility of stakeholders to safeguard progress made in the national HIV response, strengthen resilience amid ongoing disruptions, and advance efforts toward achieving an AIDS-free Nigeria.
Activities to mark the day in Abuja included a press conference, community outreaches in areas such as Jahi, Apo Dutse, Wuse to provide free testing for HIV and other diseases, a basketball tournament, religious services at the National Mosque and the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, a candlelight memorial, and a commemoration event at the banquet hall of Aso Villa in Abuja.
At the commemoration event in Abuja, the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, urged Nigerians to support the Renewed Hope Agenda. She emphasized that “we must work together to achieve a HIV-free Nigeria by 2030.”
In her keynote remarks, the Director General of NACA, Dr. Temitope Ilori, reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to sustaining gains in HIV control. She stated: “On this World AIDS Day, we renew our resolve to sustain the Nigerian HIV response. Nigeria’s HIV response is stronger than ever; we have achieved 87-98-95 progress toward global targets and cut new infections by 46% in a decade.”
She further called on government institutions, civil society, implementing partners, and communities “to unite in purpose and action for an AIDS-free generation.”
IHVN featured in a panel discussion on “HIV Prevention as a Frontier for Health Security.” During this session, IHVN Program Manager Prevention, Mr. Ngozi Ajaero, highlighted the institute’s achievements and ongoing efforts, including implementation of evidence-based prevention strategies, community-led interventions, and adoption of innovative biomedical tools such as Lenacapavir.
Mr. Ajaero emphasized that these innovations are critical in addressing persistent gaps, particularly among young people and People at High Risk of HIV Acquisition (PHRH).
Earlier during the national flag-off of World AIDS Day activities at NACA Headquarters in Abuja, IHVN Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Patrick Dakum, reiterated the Institute’s commitment to innovation, partnership, and quality service delivery.
IHVN also supported NACA in the weeklong provision of free HIV Testing Services and awareness creation efforts through the media.
