By Justina Auta
Ilori described the media as a critical partner in Nigeria’s HIV response, emphasising that the fight against HIV extended beyond medicines and health services to providing accurate information.
She explained that PrEP was a highly effective HIV prevention option for HIV-negative persons at risk of acquiring the virus, noting that its success depended on awareness, accessibility and correct understanding.
“The media remains one of our most powerful partners in public health communication.
“Social media provides an unprecedented opportunity to reach young people and other audiences with information in formats that are engaging, relatable and easy to understand.
“In the age of misinformation and sensational content, inaccurate information about HIV prevention can create fear, reinforce stigma and discourage people from accessing services.
“I urge you to use your platforms to provide information that is accurate, evidence-based, respectful and free from stigma and discrimination,” she said.
Ilori urged journalists to help answer common questions about who could use PrEP, how it worked, where it could be accessed and available prevention options.
She encouraged media practitioners to humanise HIV prevention stories, promote constructive conversations and serve as trusted sources of credible health information.
According to her, the training aligned with Nigeria’s National HIV Strategic Plan 2026–2030, which prioritises innovation, sustainability, stronger partnerships and community engagement.
She said the engagement marked the beginning of stronger collaboration among NACA, the media and digital community to increase demand for HIV prevention services, reduce stigma and save lives.
Speaking, Mr Taiwo Olakunle, PrEP Focal Person at the National AIDS, Viral Hepatitis and STIs Control Programme, underscored the importance of providing accurate information to the public.
Olakunle said proper information would shape public perception, correct misconceptions and help individuals choose HIV prevention options best suited to their lifestyles and health needs.
Also speaking, Dr Oluwafunke Odunlade, Technical Officer for HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections at WHO Nigeria, emphasised the media’s influence in shaping public opinion.
She urged participants to ensure that every piece of information disseminated was factual and evidence-based, noting that many Nigerians relied on journalists and influencers for health information.
Odunlade expressed hope that the engagement would evolve into a community of practice where media professionals and health experts could continue collaborating on HIV prevention communication.
Similarly, Dr Ayiola Abiodun-Olufemi, Director of Health and Social Care at the National Orientation Agency (NOA), reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting NACA in taking HIV prevention messages to communities.
He said NOA would work with the media to ensure PrEP awareness reached not only urban audiences but also grassroots communities and underserved populations.
Representing implementing partners, Mr Taofeek Adeleye, Senior Prevention Programme Manager at AHF Nigeria, said partners were deploying a combination of HIV prevention strategies to expand awareness and access to PrEP, particularly among young people.
He said interventions included school health clubs, community engagement, condom promotion, PrEP, Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) and public education on HIV transmission and prevention.
According to Adeleye, creating an enabling environment through government support and community participation was essential to ensuring every Nigerian could access the HIV prevention option most appropriate to their needs.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)