Oyo Government Urges Collective Efforts in Fight Against HIV/AIDS Ahead of 2025 World AIDS Day

Oyo Government Urges Collective Efforts in Fight Against HIV/AIDS Ahead of 2025 World AIDS Day

As the world prepares to mark the 2025 World AIDS Day, the Oyo State Government has appealed to citizens, stakeholders, and institutions for renewed collective action in combating HIV/AIDS across the state.

The Chairman of the Oyo State Agency for the Control of AIDS (OYSACA), Dr. Gbola Adetunji, made the call on Tuesday in Ibadan while unveiling activities lined up for this year’s commemoration.

He said the 2025 World AIDS Day theme, “Overcoming Disruption: Sustaining Nigeria’s HIV Response,” underscores the need for shared responsibility, consistent advocacy, and sustained medical support to end the epidemic.

Dr. Adetunji highlighted the government’s intervention in reducing HIV prevalence, noting that sustained awareness campaigns and improved access to treatment have produced encouraging results. However, he expressed worry over emerging infections, particularly among young people.

“Over the years, we have made significant strides in increasing access to HIV testing, treatment, and care,” he said.
“Oyo State has recorded a notable decrease in new infections, thanks to our healthcare workers, community leaders, and people living with HIV who continue to show resilience.”

He explained that under the leadership of Governor ‘Seyi Makinde, the current administration has prioritized HIV response efforts through expanded access to health services and community-based sensitization on transmission and prevention.

The OYSACA chairman added that the State has strengthened its prevention programs focusing on education, condom distribution, and prevention of mother-to-child transmission. He further appreciated the government for enrolling 10,000 People Living with HIV into the State Health Insurance Scheme (OYSHIA), providing better access to treatment.

Speaking on this year’s activities, the Coordinating Director of OYSACA, Dr. Wale Falana, disclosed that the Agency will carry out a series of public engagement initiatives including HIV counseling and free testing, a State-wide awareness walk, school and market outreach, community dialogue, and media sensitization.

Dr. Falana urged residents to take advantage of available services, emphasizing that ignorance and stigma remain major barriers in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

“Oyo State has an Anti-Stigma Law enacted in 2016 which makes discrimination against People Living with HIV a criminal offense. The law carries penalties and even jail terms,” he warned.

He urged members of the public to seek accurate information, access HIV counseling and testing services, and support affected individuals without prejudice.

The 2025 World AIDS Day commemoration, he added, is expected to deepen public understanding of the virus and reinforce collective resolve in eliminating HIV/AIDS in the state.

E-Signed:
Prince Dotun Oyelade,
Hon. Commissioner for Information, Oyo State
November 26, 2025