NACA, WHO Warn Media Against HIV Misinformation, Stigma

The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) have warned media professionals and social media influencers against spreading misinformation and stigmatising content about HIV.

NACA Director-General, Dr Temitope Ilori, gave the warning on Thursday in Lagos during a national training for journalists and social media influencers on HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, organised by NACA in collaboration with the WHO.

Ilori said the fight against HIV went beyond making medicines and prevention services available, stressing the importance of providing Nigerians with accurate information to enable them 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 HIV.

The NACA boss, however, said the effectiveness of PrEP in Nigeria would depend not only on its availability but also on public awareness, proper understanding, accessibility and willingness to use it.

She described journalists and social media influencers as critical partners in the national HIV response because of their ability to shape public conversations and reach large audiences.

Ilori warned that inaccurate information and sensational content could create fear, reinforce misconceptions and discourage people from accessing HIV prevention and treatment services.

She urged media professionals to ensure that their reports and online content were accurate, evidence-based, respectful and free from stigma and discrimination.

The NACA DG also encouraged journalists to provide clear information on who can use PrEP, how it works, where it can be accessed and other available HIV prevention options.

She said media reports should humanise HIV prevention and create safe spaces where people could ask questions without fear or shame.

The warning comes as Nigeria implements its National Strategic Plan for HIV and AIDS 2026–2030, which focuses on sustainability, innovation, stronger partnerships and community engagement.

Ilori urged participants to use their platforms to challenge misconceptions, increase demand for HIV prevention services and reduce stigma.

She said stronger collaboration between NACA, the media and digital communities would help ensure that more Nigerians had access to reliable information and the tools needed to protect themselves from HIV.