Blog
NACA Strengthens Partnership with UNAIDS to Advance National HIV/AIDS Response
Abuja, Nigeria – March 26, 2024
The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) hosted a productive meeting on March 25th, 2024, between Dr. Temitope Ilori, Director General of NACA, and Dr. Leo Zekeng, Country Director of UNAIDS, alongside his team.
The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration between NACA and UNAIDS in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Nigeria. Dr. Zekeng reaffirmed UNAIDS’ commitment to supporting member states, including Nigeria, as outlined by the “Three Ones” principle, where UNAIDS serves as a unified UN body on HIV/AIDS.
Dr. Zekeng highlighted several key areas of UNAIDS’ support for Nigeria:
- Partnership with Governments: UNAIDS collaborates with member state governments to develop and implement effective HIV/AIDS control programs.
- Vulnerable Population Support: UNAIDS prioritizes the well-being of vulnerable populations disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS, such as the Key Population.
- Data Monitoring: UNAIDS provides technical assistance to ensure accurate data collection and analysis to monitor HIV/AIDS trends.
- Technical Support: UNAIDS offers technical expertise to strengthen national capacities for HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and care services.
- Human Rights Advocacy: UNAIDS champions human rights and social justice for people living with HIV/AIDS.
Dr. Zekeng expressed hope that the ongoing merger between NACA and the National AIDS/ sexually transmitted infections Control Programme (NASCP) would build upon existing achievements in the national response. He reiterated UNAIDS’ unwavering support for government decisions in this process.
In her response, Dr. Ilori expressed appreciation for UNAIDS’ support and commitment to a collaborative working relationship. She acknowledged the importance of sustaining past achievements while exploring innovative approaches to elevate Nigeria’s HIV/AIDS response. Dr. Ilori pledged to share her agenda soon to ensure a unified approach and continued progress.
The meeting concluded with a positive outlook on continued collaboration between NACA and UNAIDS to achieve significant milestones in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Nigeria.
