As the world marked World AIDS Day on December 1, people living with HIV in Kano State spoke out about the persistent stigma and discrimination they face, despite years of public awareness campaigns.

Bashir Isma’il, Director of the Save Lives Sustainable and Counseling Initiative, told DAILY POST that ignorance and poverty continue to drive discrimination, even within healthcare settings.

“Stigma is still very real despite all the efforts by government and organisations like ours. Some people look down on you just because you carry this condition. If you’re poor and go to the hospital, you may notice you are treated differently. When you see special attention given to patients, it’s because they can afford it,” Isma’il said.

He also expressed concern over potential disruptions in HIV medication caused by international aid, citing a previous threat by US President Donald Trump to halt medical assistance. Thankfully, an agreement between Nigeria and the US prevented a crisis, ensuring continued access to essential drugs.

Patients Share Experiences of Fear and Isolation

A patient, who gave his name as MD, recounted the struggles faced by low-income Nigerians living with HIV:

“I spent months moving from one traditional healer to another before my diagnosis. After learning my status, I faced discrimination from family and friends. Life became very difficult.”

Experts Call for Local Research and Solutions

Isah Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, emphasized the importance of homegrown research and local solutions.

“We cannot remain dependent on wealthy nations for research and drug support. Our governments and experts must take the lead in producing medications and finding solutions,” he said.

Sanusi also noted that, although global infection rates are declining, HIV remains a major public health issue in Nigeria, particularly in the South South and North Central regions.

HIV/AIDS Statistics in Nigeria

Over 2 million Nigerians were living with HIV by the end of 2024

Kano State alone has more than 50,000 people living with the virus

51,000 AIDS-related deaths occurred in 2024

74,000 new infections were recorded

The theme for World AIDS Day 2025 was “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response”, with the World Health Organization (WHO) calling for stronger political commitment, global cooperation, and human-rights-focused strategies to end AIDS by 2030.

World AIDS Day, first commemorated in 1988, continues to serve as a reminder of the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS and the urgent need to address stigma and inequality.