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- Nigeria unveils national policy disease
From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja
The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, has urged Nigerians to be supportive towards those living with HIV/AIDS among them.
The minister noted that as long as stigma and discrimination exist, there would be very little progress in the fight to end HIV/AIDS.
Onyejeocha spoke at the launch of the national policy on HIV/AIDS, on Thursday in Abuja.
The policy, which was formulated by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment in conjunction with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) is meant to provide support and protection to people living with HIV in their work environment.
The launching of the programme was part of activities commemorating the 2023 World Aids Day, with the theme “Let Communities Lead”.
Speaking at the event, Onyejeocha said: “We keep talking about eradicating HIV and Aids but we cannot achieve anything if we do not change our attitude towards those living with the disease.
“We need to start seeing those who are infected as our friends, relations and family. Many were not infected because they were reckless but through blood transfusion, ignorantly sharing sharp objects and even at birth. So we need to show love to one another”
Onyejeocha described this year’s theme as emphasising the crucial role that leadership and resilience of the nation’s diverse communities play in our joint efforts to address the challenges posed by HIV/AIDS.
According to her, communities no longer just become the objects of interventions; they also become proactive agents of change, able to eliminate stigma, increase consciousness, and foster a supportive and understanding atmosphere.
She cited the World Health Organisation (WHO) to say that although new infections have decreased in some countries, HIV/AIDS is still a major global public health concern.
The minister said: “The empowerment of communities and the promotion of scientific research and innovation stand as pillars supporting progress in the prevention, treatment, and care of HIV/AIDS worldwide.
“As we commemorate World AIDS Day, it is imperative to reflect not only on the progress achieved and lives impacted but also on the persistent challenges that confront us.
“HIV/AIDS is not merely a health crisis; it is a formidable social and economic challenge affecting individuals, families, and entire communities. A comprehensive and collaborative response is essential to address this multifaceted challenge”.
On her part, the ILO country Director, Ms. Vanessa Phala, said the policy addresses gaps and highlights the critical role of the work actors in the National response to the HIV epidemic.
She added that, “it reflects recommendations and guidelines from global best practices for prevention, treatment, and care services such as the test and treat strategy and HIV self-testing whilst also taking cognisance that Occupational safety and health is now a Fundamental principle and right at work.”
