The Federal Capital Territory Administration has unveiled plans to roll out free HIV counselling and testing as part of activities marking the 2025 World AIDS Day, with emphasis on grassroots involvement and collective responsibility in fighting the epidemic.
In a statement released on Thursday by Mrs. Bola Ajao, Special Assistant to the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, the Secretariat noted that this year’s observance — themed “Overcoming Disruption: Sustaining Nigeria’s HIV Response” — will feature open and inclusive participation.
A central component of the commemoration is a high-level one-day symposium scheduled for December 2, 2025, in Abuja.
World AIDS Day, marked every December 1, serves to raise awareness on HIV/AIDS, promote global solidarity, and evaluate progress made in tackling the disease. It also renews commitment toward eliminating HIV and expanding access to treatment.
According to the Director of Public Health, Dr. Dan Gadzama, the Mandate Secretary has directed the Secretariat to align its activities with global efforts aimed at strengthening HIV education and curbing transmission.
“The symposium will bring together policymakers, health workers, development partners, people living with HIV/AIDS, and community members.
“The event aims to assess progress so far, share practical knowledge, and chart new strategies to strengthen HIV response in the FCT.
“Stakeholders are expected to speak with one voice and work collectively toward supporting affected persons and improving services,” the statement added.
Commenting on the importance of the annual observance, the State Programme Coordinator for HIV/AIDS, STIs and Viral Hepatitis, Dr. Fatima Daggash, explained that December 1 offers a global moment to honour those lost to AIDS-related illnesses, acknowledge progress made, and renew determination to end the epidemic.
She emphasised that the meeting will provide a platform for genuine discussions on existing challenges and sustainable ways to address them.
“As part of the commemoration, free HIV counselling and testing will be offered, alongside community sensitization activities to encourage early detection, ensure linkage to care, sustain viral suppression, and reduce stigma across communities.
“The FCTA urges residents to participate actively and take advantage of the free health services, stressing that early testing and open conversations remain essential steps toward ending HIV/AIDS in the nation’s capital,”
the statement added.
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