NACA and WHO warn media against HIV misinformation and stigma in Nigeria

Dr. Temitope Ilori, Director-General of NACA, issued this warning in Lagos during a national training on HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis PrEP, organized by NACA in collaboration with the World Health Organization WHO. Dr. Ilori emphasized that combating HIV requires not only access to medicines and prevention services but also accurate information for informed health decisions. She highlighted PrEP as an effective prevention option for HIV-negative individuals at risk, noting its national impact depends on awareness, correct understanding, accessibility, and willingness to use it.

Dr. Ilori underscored the media's crucial role in shaping public discourse and reaching millions, urging them to provide accurate, evidence-based, respectful information free from stigma and discrimination. She called on media professionals to help Nigerians understand who can use PrEP, how it works, where to access it, and available prevention options. This warning coincides with Nigeria's strengthened HIV prevention strategy under the National Strategic Plan for HIV and AIDS 2026–2030, which focuses on sustainability, innovation, partnerships, and community engagement.

Dr. Ilori also advised against judgmental reporting, advocating for humanizing HIV preve