The National Agency for the Control of AIDS has warned that misinformation, stigma and sensational reporting could undermine Nigeria’s efforts to prevent new HIV infections, urging journalists and social media influencers to provide accurate and evidence-based information on HIV prevention.

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The Director-General of NACA, Dr Temitope Ilori, gave the warning on Thursday in Lagos at a national training of journalists and social media influencers on HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, organised by NACA in collaboration with the World Health Organisation.

Ilori said the fight against HIV went beyond making medicines and prevention services available, stressing that Nigerians must also have access to accurate information to make informed decisions about their health.

She identified PrEP as an effective HIV prevention option for people who are HIV-negative and may be at risk of acquiring the virus.

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However, she noted that the impact of PrEP in Nigeria would depend not only on its availability but also on public awareness, correct understanding, accessibility and willingness to use it.

She said, “PrEP is a highly effective HIV prevention option for people who are HIV-negative and may be at risk of acquiring HIV. However, its effectiveness in the national response depends not only on availability, but also on awareness, correct understanding, accessibility and willingness to use it.”

The NACA boss described journalists and social media influencers as critical partners in the national HIV response, given their ability to shape public conversations and reach millions of Nigerians.

According to her, the media and digital platforms have a responsibility to ensure that information on HIV prevention does not create fear or reinforce misconceptions.

She said, “In the age of misinformation and sensational content, inaccurate information about HIV prevention can create fear, reinforce stigma and discourage people from accessing services.”

Ilori urged media professionals and influencers to provide information that is accurate, evidence-based, respectful and free from stigma and discrimination.

📰 Source: Punch Nigeria