Director General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Dr. Gambo Aliyu, has said that out of every ten individuals living with HIV in Nigeria are female.
In addition, young Nigerian women are three times more likely to be living with HIV compared to men in the same age group. Dr. Aliyu made these remarks in a press statement released on Tuesday to commemorate International Women’s Day 2024. The official theme for the day, as designated by the United Nations, is “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,” highlighting the significance of gender equality, women’s empowerment, and their right to healthier lives.
Dr. Aliyu emphasized the need to empower Nigerian women in light of these statistics. He stated, “This year’s theme, ‘Invest in Women, Accelerate Progress,’ strongly resonates with NACA’s commitment to advancing gender equality and addressing the unique challenges faced by women living with HIV/AIDS. Young women in Nigeria are three times more likely to be living with HIV than men in the same age group. With six out of ten persons living with HIV in the country being females, it underscores the imperative to invest in women.”
The NACA Director General stressed that investing in women is not just a financial commitment but also an investment in sustainable progress for society as a whole. Empowering women creates a transformative effect that positively impacts families, communities, and the nation at large.
In commemoration of International Women’s Day, NACA reaffirmed its dedication to empowering women and girls and recognizing their roles in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The agency remains committed to promoting inclusive policies, ensuring access to comprehensive healthcare, and fostering education to empower women to make informed decisions regarding their sexual and reproductive health.
Dr. Aliyu added, “Through targeted interventions and community engagement, we strive to create an environment that protects and uplifts the dignity of every woman.”
He expressed gratitude to individuals, organizations, and partners who contribute to advancing women’s rights and the global HIV/AIDS response. Dr. Aliyu called for continued collaboration towards a future where every woman can live free from the burden of HIV/AIDS. NACA estimates that 1.8 million individuals are living with HIV in Nigeria, with approximately 1.63 million already receiving antiretroviral therapy, a life-saving medication.