Renowned actress, producer, and director Funke Akindele has been named the National Goodwill Ambassador for Nigeria by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS).
This prestigious appointment recognizes her significant contributions to HIV advocacy, awareness campaigns, and efforts to eliminate AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
With a career spanning over two decades, Funke Akindele has used her influence to champion social causes, promote awareness, and drive positive change. As UNAIDS’ National Goodwill Ambassador, she will focus on key initiatives, including eliminating vertical HIV transmission, combating stigma and discrimination, and promoting HIV prevention nationwide.
According to UNAIDS, Nigeria has made significant progress in the fight against HIV. By 2023, an estimated 2 million people were living with HIV in the country, with an adult prevalence rate of 1.3% among those aged 15–49.
The annual number of new HIV infections dropped from approximately 130,000 in 2010 to 75,000 in 2023—a 42.3% decline over 13 years. Access to treatment has also improved, with 1.6 million people receiving antiretroviral therapy, representing 80% of those living with HIV.
However, challenges such as stigma, discrimination, and equitable access to prevention and treatment persist.
Funke Akindele’s appointment underscores the importance of leveraging influential voices to amplify HIV awareness and advocacy. Her role is expected to mobilize efforts to reduce stigma, promote prevention strategies, and ensure critical messages reach diverse audiences across Nigeria.
The nomination process for her appointment involved collaboration with the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), which praised UNAIDS for facilitating this impactful partnership.
The announcement was made during the World AIDS Day commemoration on December 3, 2024, in Abuja. The event was led by the United Nations Resident Coordinator for Nigeria, Mohammed M. Malick Fall.
UNAIDS Country Director for Nigeria, Dr. Leopold Zekeng, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Funke Akindele as our National Goodwill Ambassador for Nigeria. Her powerful voice, vast influence, and commitment to social change make her an invaluable ally in combating HIV and supporting those living with HIV.”
Funke Akindele’s appointment marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward ending AIDS and ensuring a healthier future for all.
