By Oluyemi Israel
A call was made to create strong laws that will support long-term HIV funding and end stigma against people living with HIV.
This happened in Lagos during the 7th National Council on AIDS (NCA), which ended on Thursday.
The call was important because global donor support for HIV is decreasing, and Nigeria needs to take full responsibility for its HIV response.
Those involved included Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu (represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat), Rep. Amobi Ogah, Dr. Temitope Ilori of NACA, and Lagos Health Commissioner Prof. Akin Abayomi.
They recommended passing new laws, increasing local funding, using HIV trust funds, reforming anti-stigma policies, and including HIV care in normal health services with better planning and leadership.