World AIDS Day 2025: It’s Not Over” - AHF Nigeria rallies nations as rising infections demand renewed action

By Johnson Arua

As the world commemorates World AIDS Day 2025, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Nigeria has warned that the global fight against HIV/AIDS is still far from won, citing 1.3 million new infections annually and nearly 40 million people living with the virus.

In a statement issued by Steve Aborisade, Advocacy and Marketing Manager of AHF Nigeria, the organisation said it will hold a major commemorative event in Keffi, Nasarawa State, on December 1, to re-emphasise that decades of progress must not lead to complacency.

“The global reality of rising infections — especially among women, girls, and key populations — shows clearly that this fight is not over,” Aborisade said. “Stigma, discrimination, and barriers to treatment are still costing lives.”

He said this year’s commemoration would intensify awareness, prevention, testing, and care, while expressing solidarity with communities affected by HIV/AIDS across Nigeria.

Media Engagement Ahead of Main Event

Ahead of the Keffi event, AHF will host a media breakfast meeting in Abuja with journalists and key stakeholders, including NACA, NASCP, NEPWHAN, and ASHWAN, to reinforce the role of the press in shaping public understanding of HIV.

“The media plays a very important role in disseminating information and forming opinions in any society,” AHF noted. “Journalists have a huge impact on how people understand HIV/AIDS and perceive those living with it.”

Road Walk, Awareness Sessions in Keffi

On December 1, AHF and its partners will embark on a road walk from Keffi city centre to Nasarawa State University, followed by health awareness sessions for students and the wider public. Participants will include students, Red Cross members, civil society groups, community-based organisations, skaters, and traditional dancers.

Free condoms and educational materials will be distributed along the route.

Across other AHF-supported states, teams will appear on radio programmes to educate the public about HIV/AIDS and emerging treatment options, while also offering free testing and condom distribution.

Rising Youth Infections a Major Concern

AHF Nigeria’s Country Program Director, Dr. Echey Ijezie, said the organisation’s recent investments in youth-friendly wellness centres are a direct response to rising infections among adolescents.

“We recently opened Wellness Centres in Abuja and Benue because of the growing wave of STIs among young people,” Dr. Ijezie said. “Partnering with Nasarawa State University allows us to expand access for students and empower youths to take charge of their health.”

“Progress at Risk, If Complacency Sets In” - AHF Africa

AHF Africa Bureau Chief, Martin Matabishi, warned that Africa’s progress against HIV remains fragile.

"Africa has made great strides against HIV, but rising infections - especially among adolescents and young women - remind us that the fight isn’t over,” he said.

According to him “to truly transform the AIDS response, we must adopt inclusive health policies, promote combination prevention, and put communities at the forefront of tackling stigma and inequality.”

High Drug Prices Still Blocking Access

AHF also raised alarms over the impact of high drug prices on global HIV prevention efforts, calling on pharmaceutical companies to prioritise access.

“Even with groundbreaking tools like long-acting injectables, high prices keep them out of reach for those who need them most,” the organisation cautioned.

A Call to Renew Commitment

World AIDS Day, observed annually on December 1, remains a time to reflect on progress, honour lives lost, and demand renewed political will.

This year, AHF says the message is unmistakable: “It’s Not Over.”