By Joke Kujenya
LIFE-SAVING services for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) are experiencing ongoing disruptions, leaving many communities at heightened risk despite continued global efforts, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has revealed.
The health agency reported that an estimated 40.8 million people were living with HIV worldwide in 2024, with approximately 1.3 million new infections and 630,000 deaths from HIV-related causes during the same year.
HIV attacks the body’s immune system and spreads through the body fluids of an infected person. Symptoms can vary, with some individuals experiencing flu-like illness including fever, headache, rash, and sore throat as the infection progresses to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), its most advanced and deadly stage.
While there is no cure, WHO emphasises that prevention and treatment remain highly effective.
Recommended strategies include condom use, HIV and sexually transmitted infection testing, medical male circumcision, safe support for people who inject drugs, and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
Marking World AIDS Day
On 1 December, WHO joined partners and communities to observe World AIDS Day 2025 under the theme “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response” as the organisation called for sustained political leadership, international cooperation, and human-rights-centred approaches to eliminate AIDS by 2030.
WHO noted that after decades of progress, the global HIV response now faces challenges. Disruptions in essential services are increasing vulnerabilities, yet the determination, resilience, and innovation of communities remain central to ongoing efforts.
Nigeria’s First Lady Counsels Action
In Nigeria, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, urged citizens to intensify efforts toward eliminating HIV/AIDS during the World AIDS Day commemoration.
She highlighted the country’s progress in prevention, treatment, and care, while noting that Nigeria’s journey toward an AIDS-free generation by 2030 continues.
Senator Tinubu stressed equitable access to services for all Nigerians without fear of stigma or discrimination. She encouraged young people to know their HIV status, get tested, and seek treatment promptly if positive.
She also called on communities to provide support, compassion, and reject all forms of stigmatization against people living with HIV.
Reiterating WHO guidance, she emphasised that effective HIV prevention requires a combination of medical interventions, community engagement, and sustained political commitment.
Global Challenges and the Path Forward
WHO reported that millions continue to live with HIV, and new infections remain a significant challenge reiterating that sustained access to testing and treatment is essential to prevent progression to AIDS and reduce mortality.
The organisation stressed that no child, adolescent, or adult should be left without essential HIV services due to stigma, discrimination, or healthcare disruptions.
It also noted that coordinated action at national and community levels, strengthened international cooperation, and continued innovation in prevention and treatment, are critical to sustaining progress.
WHO, in closing, stated that a combination of medical prevention, community support, and political leadership is central to achieving the goal of ending AIDS by 2030.
It also added that sustained efforts in testing, treatment, and prevention are vital to curbing new infections and saving lives worldwide.
