Young Female Nigerians Three Times More Likely To Have HIV – NACA

Young Nigerian women are three times more likely to live with HIV than men within the same age group, according to Director General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Dr Gambo Aliyu.

He also said six out of 10 persons living with HIV in Nigeria are females.

The NACA DG made this known in a press statement to commemorate the 2024 International Women’s Day (IWD), and called for the empowerment of Nigerian women.

IWD is celebrated on March 8 annually, with the official theme of the day for the United Nations being ‘Invest in women: Accelerate progress’.

The 2024 theme highlights the importance of gender equality, women and girls’ empowerment, and their rights to healthier lives.

The NACA added, “This year’s theme, ‘Invest in Women, Accelerate Progress’ resonates deeply with NACA’s commitment to advancing gender equality and addressing unique challenges faced by women living with HIV/AIDS.

“Young women living in Nigeria are three times more likely to be living with HIV than men of the same age group.

“Six out of 10 persons living with HIV in the country are females, emphasising the need to invest in women.

Read Also: LUTH Successful Performs First Minimal Surgery On 13-Day-Old Baby

“Investing in women is not just a financial commitment, it’s an investment in the sustainable progress of our societies.

“When we empower women, we create a transformative effect that positively impacts families, communities, and the nation as a whole.”

He said NACA remain dedicated to empowering women and girls and recognising their roles in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

According to the NACA DG, the agency remains steadfast in promoting inclusive policies, ensuring access to comprehensive health care, and fostering education to empower women to make informed decisions regarding their sexual and reproductive health.

“Through targeted interventions and community engagement, we strive to create an environment that protects and uplifts the dignity of every woman,” he added.

The NACA boss, however, appreciated individuals, organisations, and partners who contribute to the advancement of women’s rights and the global HIV/AIDS response.

“Together, let us continue to work towards a future where every woman can live free from the burden of HIV/AIDS,” Aliyu, stated.

According to NACA, 1.8 million persons are estimated to be living with HIV in Nigeria, out of which about 1.63 million are already on the lifesaving medication, Antiretroviral Therapy.


Discover more from LN247

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Advertisement

Most Popular This Week

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

More from Author

Advertisement

Read Now

World Cancer Day: Nigerian Celebrities That Died From Cancer

As the world marks World Cancer Day 2025 on February 4, the fight against cancer remains a global priority. This year's theme, "Close the Care Gap," highlights the urgent need for equitable access to cancer treatment and awareness, especially in low-resource countries like Nigeria. In recent years, Nigeria...

Coca-Cola Europe Recall: “There is no cause for alarm in Nigeria” – NAFDAC

On Monday, the European bottling unit of Coca-Cola ordered a major recall of Coke, Sprite and other beverages with production in major European countries especially Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands after detecting high levels of chlorate, which poses potential health risks. Chlorate can be produced when chlorine-based disinfectants...

Coca-Cola Recalls Drinks In Europe Over Safety Concerns

Coca-Cola has recalled its drinks in some countries across Europe because they contain "higher levels" of a chemical called chlorate. The firm said in a statement that the recall was focused on Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. It added just five product lines had been shipped to Britain,...

Discover more from LN247

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading