The Oyo State Government has urged residents to renew their commitment and work together in the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS, as activities commence for the 2025 World AIDS Day.
Chairman of the Oyo State Agency for the Control of AIDS (OYSACA), Dr. Gbola Adetunji, made the call on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, in Ibadan while unveiling programmes lined up for this year’s commemoration themed “Overcoming Disruption: Sustaining Nigeria’s HIV Response.”
Dr. Adetunji said the theme underscores the importance of unity, accountability, and sustained efforts in curbing the epidemic.
He stressed that prevention, awareness, and continuous support for People Living With HIV (PLHIV) remain critical in the State’s response.
According to him, Oyo State has continued to strengthen its HIV/AIDS interventions, recording significant progress in reducing prevalence. However, he expressed concern over emerging new infections, particularly among young people.
He noted that the administration of Governor ’Seyi Makinde has prioritized HIV services through expanded access to treatment and intensified public enlightenment on transmission and prevention.
He said, “Over the years, we’ve made significant strides in increasing access to HIV testing, treatment, and care. Our state has recorded a notable decrease in new infections, thanks to the tireless efforts of our healthcare workers, community leaders, and individuals living with HIV.”
He added that the State has bolstered prevention programmes, including education campaigns, condom distribution, and prevention of mother-to-child transmission. Dr. Adetunji also commended the government for allocating 10,000 health insurance slots through the Oyo State Health Insurance Agency (OYSHIA) to support PLHIV.
OYSACA’s Coordinating Director, Dr. Wale Falana, also announced a series of events to mark the 2025 World AIDS Day, including a statewide awareness walk, free HIV counseling and testing, market and school sensitization outreaches, media engagements, and community dialogue sessions.
He urged residents to take advantage of the free services and equip themselves with accurate information, noting that ignorance and stigma continue to impede progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Dr. Falana reminded the public of the Oyo State Anti-Discrimination and Stigma Law (2016), which criminalizes stigmatization and discrimination against PLHIV.
“There is a fine and even a jail term for offenders,” he warned, calling on citizens to uphold empathy, protection, and dignity for all.
