From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Global Hope for Women and Children Foundation (GLOHWOC), has called on government authorities, healthcare providers and community leaders in Nigeria to take urgent steps to end stigma and discrimination against persons living with and at risk of HIV.
The Ilorin-based organisation made the call to commemorate Zero Discrimination Day 2026, observed globally every March 1 by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS.
In a statement issued in Ilorin, GLOHWOC stressed that while Nigeria has made progress in HIV prevention, treatment and care, discrimination remains a major obstacle to achieving an AIDS-free generation.
“Every person deserves dignity, respect and equal access to opportunities regardless of their HIV status,” the foundation said. “Ending AIDS is not only a medical goal, it is a human rights imperative.”
Related News
The group lamented that many Nigerians living with HIV still face exclusion in hospitals, workplaces, schools, religious centres and even within their families.
It noted that women and girls, young people, persons with disabilities and those in rural communities often experience multiple layers of discrimination, worsening inequality and limiting access to lifesaving services.
GLOHWOC expressed particular concern over stigma and gender-based discrimination against women living with HIV, limited access to youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health services, workplace discrimination including unlawful termination, breaches of confidentiality in health facilities, and barriers preventing persons with disabilities from accessing HIV information and care.
The organisation urged government at all levels to strengthen enforcement of existing anti-discrimination laws and increase funding for community-led HIV responses. It also called on healthcare institutions to uphold professional ethics and guarantee confidential, non-judgmental services.
“Healthcare providers must protect patient confidentiality and promote stigma-free, rights-based service delivery,” the statement read.
Employers and educational institutions were advised to adopt clear non-discrimination policies, while traditional and religious leaders were encouraged to use their influence to challenge harmful stereotypes and promote compassion within communities.
The foundation further appealed to the media to report HIV-related issues responsibly and amplify the voices of persons living with HIV without sensationalism.
Highlighting the importance of grassroots action, GLOHWOC said community-based organisations play a critical role in reducing stigma, encouraging HIV testing, supporting treatment adherence and improving psychosocial wellbeing.
“Discrimination drives HIV underground. Inclusion brings it into the light,” the group stated. “We must move beyond rhetoric to concrete action that protects rights and saves lives.”
GLOHWOC reaffirmed its commitment to community sensitisation campaigns, advocacy for inclusive health policies, support groups for women and girls living with HIV, disability-inclusive programming and strengthened referral and social protection systems.
The organisation maintained that building a society free from discrimination is essential for sustainable development and social justice in Nigeria.
