Six out of ten HIV-positive people in Nigeria are female, according to Dr. Gambo Aliyu, Director General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS.
In addition, Aliyu stated that compared to men in the same age range, young Nigerian women have a threefold higher risk of HIV infection.
In a press release on Tuesday in honor of the 2024 International Women’s Day, Aliyu demanded the empowerment of women in Nigeria.
Every year on March 8, people commemorate IWD. “Invest in women: Accelerate progress” is the United Nations’ official theme for the day.
The topic emphasizes the value of gender equality, the empowerment of women and girls, and their entitlement to a healthier lifestyle.
“Invest in Women, Accelerate Progress,” this year’s theme, “resonates deeply with NACA’s commitment to advancing gender equality and addressing the unique challenges faced by women living with HIV/AIDS,” according to the NACA DG.
“Young women living in Nigeria are three times more likely to be living with HIV than men of the same age group.
“Six out of 10 persons living with HIV in the country are females, emphasising the need to invest in women.
“Investing in women is not just a financial commitment, it’s an investment in the sustainable progress of our societies.
“When we empower women, we create a transformative effect that positively impacts families, communities, and the nation as a whole.”
In honor of International Women’s Day, Aliyu pointed out that NACA reiterated its commitment to empowering women and girls and acknowledging their contributions to the battle against HIV/AIDS.
He continued by saying that the organization would not waver in its support of inclusive laws, full access to healthcare, and education to enable women to make decisions about their sexual and reproductive health.
