The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has called on Nigerians to be more proactive in preventing HIV/AIDS, highlighting Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) as a critical tool. Speaking at a media capacity-building workshop in Lagos, NACA's Director-General, Dr. Temitope Ilori, emphasized that preventive measures remain crucial in the national strategy. PrEP is a highly effective medication-based intervention for HIV-negative individuals to reduce their risk of contracting the virus.
Dr. Ilori noted that educating journalists on PrEP is vital to strengthening public health literacy and dismantling stigma. She stated that the media has the power to shape public understanding and encourage people to seek prevention services. The NACA chief urged journalists to view themselves as frontline public health partners, translating complex medical facts into clear, actionable information. This effort aims to dispel misconceptions and encourage people to seek help.
The workshop coincides with the rollout of Nigeria's updated National Strategic Plan (2026–2030) for HIV control, prioritizing innovation, sustainability, community engagement, and multi-sectoral partnerships. Dr. Ilori emphasized that NACA's collaboration with the press is an ongoing partnership. Technical sessions led by health experts provided participants with detailed training on biomedical prevention tools, including PrEP and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP).
The workshop convened journalists and communication professionals from across Nigeria, representing 14 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Participants received training on reporting HIV prevention and treatment. Dr. Segun David Oyedeji, Dr. Adeleye Taofeek, and Mrs. Comfort Amina led the technical sessions, providing expertise on biomedical prevention tools.
Dr. Ilori highlighted digital and social media platforms as essential channels for reaching youth and vulnerable populations, who increasingly source health information online. She emphasized that credible, evidence-based information must be readily available where people are already looking for it. This approach aims to encourage people to seek prevention services and reduce new infections.
NACA's partnership with the media aims to scale up HIV prevention and PrEP uptake across Nigeria. The agency recognizes the media's role in shaping public understanding and promoting public health. By working together, NACA and the media can promote accurate information and encourage people to seek help.
The media capacity-building workshop is part of NACA's efforts to strengthen public health literacy and promote HIV prevention. Key points from the workshop include the importance of accurate reporting, the role of digital and social media in promoting public health, and the need for ongoing partnerships between NACA and the media.
Key points
- NACA urges public support for PrEP as a critical tool in reducing new HIV infections nationwide.
- The media has the power to shape public understanding and encourage people to seek prevention services.
- NACA's collaboration with the press is intended to be an ongoing partnership rather than a one-off event.
