Dr. Gambo Aliyu, the Director General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), has revealed that more women are living with HIV in Nigeria compared to men.

He emphasised that young Nigerian women are three times more likely to have HIV than men of the same age group. Additionally, six out of every 10 people living with HIV in the country are females.

Dr. Aliyu made these disclosures in a press statement released on Tuesday to mark the 2024 International Women’s Day. He called for the empowerment of Nigerian women, highlighting the need to invest in their well-being.

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International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8th, with the United Nations’ official theme being ‘Invest in women: Accelerate progress.’ This theme underscores the significance of gender equality, women’s empowerment, and their right to healthier lives as crucial tools for development.

Dr. Aliyu remarked, “This year’s theme, ‘Invest in Women, Accelerate Progress,’ aligns with NACA’s commitment to promoting gender equality and addressing the unique challenges faced by women living with HIV/AIDS.”

He stressed the importance of investing in women, noting that it yields sustainable progress for societies. Empowering women has a ripple effect that positively impacts families, communities, and the nation as a whole.

In commemoration of International Women’s Day, NACA reaffirmed its dedication to empowering women and girls, recognizing their vital roles in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The agency remains committed to promoting inclusive policies, ensuring access to comprehensive healthcare, and fostering education to empower women to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health.

Dr. Aliyu expressed gratitude to individuals, organizations, and partners contributing to the advancement of women’s rights and the global HIV/AIDS response. He urged everyone to continue working towards a future where every woman can live free from the burden of HIV/AIDS.

According to NACA, an estimated 1.8 million people are living with HIV in Nigeria, with about 1.63 million already receiving Antiretroviral Therapy, a life-saving medication.