Nigeria health agencies call for improved access to family planning and HIV prevention

Health organizations in Nigeria are calling for improved access to essential reproductive and preventative healthcare services. The Association for the Advancement of Family Planning (AAFP) Nigeria has urged stakeholders to eliminate barriers to quality contraceptive information and services. Dr Ejike Oji, Chairman of the AAFP Nigeria Management Committee, noted that despite progress, many Nigerians face challenges such as high costs, transportation issues, stock-outs, and social stigma. These barriers disproportionately impact rural communities, adolescents, persons with disabilities, and internally displaced persons.

Simultaneously, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) is engaging media professionals to enhance public awareness of HIV prevention. During a training session in Lagos, NACA Director-General Dr Temitope Ilori emphasized the importance of reporting on pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and innovative options like lenacapavir. The agency highlighted that while testing and treatment have improved, accurate information is vital to ensure people understand their prevention options and can access life-saving services.