NACA, WHO warn media against HIV misinformation, stigma

Nigeria's National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has issued a strong warning against the dangers of misinformation, stigma, and sensational reporting concerning HIV. In collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), NACA stressed that such inaccurate portrayals could significantly hinder Nigeria's progress in preventing new HIV infections.

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PrEP is a highly effective HIV prevention option for people who are HIV-negative and may be at risk of acquiring HIV. However, its effectiveness in the national response depends not only on availability, but also on awareness, correct understanding, accessibility and willingness to use it.

Dr. Temitope Ilori, Director-General of NACA, emphasized this point during a national training session for journalists and social media influencers in Lagos. The training focused on HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP). Ilori stated that the fight against HIV requires more than just accessible medicines and prevention services; it necessitates that Nigerians have accurate information to make informed health decisions.

Dr. Ilori highlighted PrEP as a highly effective HIV prevention tool for individuals who are HIV-negative but at risk of contracting the virus. However, she cautioned that its success in Nigeria hinges not only on its availability but also on public awareness, correct understanding, accessibility, and the willingness of people to use it. "We need you to help answer the questions people may be afraid to ask: Who can use PrEP? How does it work? Where can it be accessed? What are the options available? And perhaps most importantly, how can people protect themselves from HIV without fear or shame?" she urged the media professionals and influencers.

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We need you to help answer the questions people may be afraid to ask: Who can use PrEP? How does it work? Where can it be accessed? What are the options available? And perhaps most importantly, how can people protect themselves from HIV without fear or shame?

Recognizing journalists and social media influencers as crucial partners, NACA acknowledged their power to shape public discourse and reach millions. The agency implored them to ensure that HIV prevention information fosters understanding rather than fear or misconceptions. This call to action aligns with Nigeria's strengthened HIV prevention strategy under the National Strategic Plan for HIV and AIDS 2026–2030, which prioritizes sustainability, innovation, robust partnerships, and enhanced community engagement.

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In the age of misinformation and sensational content, inaccurate information about HIV prevention can create fear, reinforce stigma and discourage people from accessing services.