The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced plans to provide free HIV counselling and testing as part of activities marking the 2025 World AIDS Day, with emphasis on community engagement and a collective push to sustain Nigeria’s HIV response.
In a statement issued 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 said this year’s commemoration— themed “Overcoming Disruption: Sustaining Nigeria’s HIV Response”—will be open, inclusive and participatory.
A key feature of the programme is a one-day high-level symposium scheduled for December 2 in Abuja, bringing together policymakers, health workers, development partners, people living with HIV/AIDS and community groups.
World AIDS Day, observed globally on December 1, is dedicated to raising awareness about HIV/AIDS, strengthening solidarity with affected communities, and reviewing national and global progress in combating the epidemic.
According to the Director of Public Health, Dr Dan Gadzama, the Mandate Secretary has directed the Secretariat to align fully with global efforts aimed at increasing awareness and curbing the spread of HIV.
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“The symposium will assess progress so far, share practical knowledge and chart new strategies to strengthen HIV response in the FCT,” the statement said. “Stakeholders are expected to speak with one voice and work collectively toward supporting affected persons and improving services.”
Also speaking, the State Programme Coordinator for HIV/AIDS, STIs and Viral Hepatitis, Dr Fatima Daggash, described the day as a global moment for honouring those lost to AIDS-related illnesses, acknowledging milestones achieved and renewing commitment to ending the disease.
She said the planned convergence of stakeholders will provide an opportunity for honest conversations on gaps in the current response and the development of sustainable, community-driven solutions.
“As part of the commemoration, free HIV counselling and testing will be offered, alongside community sensitisation activities to encourage early detection, ensure linkage to care, sustain viral suppression and reduce stigma across communities,” she said.
The FCTA urged residents to participate actively and take advantage of the services, stressing that early testing and open conversations remain critical to ending HIV/AIDS in the nation’s capital.
