Nigerian Business Coalition Against AIDS (NIBUCAA) and Access Holdings Provide HIV Testing at Access Bank Lagos City Marathon 2025
Continuing their dedication to public health and community well-being, the Nigerian Business Coalition Against AIDS (NIBUCAA) partnered with Access Holdings to offer HIV testing to over 2000 participants at the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon 2025. The event, held on February 15, 2025, at Eko Atlantic City, Lagos, aimed to raise awareness about HIV prevention and distribute essential Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials and condoms to over 3000 individuals.
As Nigeria faces challenges in its HIV/AIDS response due to recent policy changes affecting foreign aid funding, private partnerships like NIBUCAA and Access Holdings play a crucial role in shaping the country’s future response. With concerns over reliance on international donor funding, it is essential for the private sector to step up and support initiatives like this to combat the HIV epidemic in Nigeria.
Esther Graham from Access Holdings emphasized the importance of such programs, stating that Nigeria has one of the highest HIV/AIDS burdens in Sub-Saharan Africa. Strategic partnerships are vital in creating awareness and providing access to free HIV testing services to the population.
Despite misconceptions that HIV is no longer a significant health threat, the reality is that it continues to pose a serious public health challenge. Dispelling myths and educating the public on prevention measures are crucial in combating the spread of the virus.
Dr. Jekwu Ozoemene, a member of the African HIV Control Working Group, highlighted the urgent need for the Nigerian government to prepare an emergency plan to ensure HIV-positive individuals have access to treatment and support in case external funding is halted. Strengthening health systems and integrating HIV services into primary healthcare are essential steps in improving the national HIV response.
Access Bank, a key partner of NIBUCAA, along with other top businesses in Nigeria, has been instrumental in driving community outreach and advocacy efforts to fight HIV/AIDS in the country. Their support has helped in implementing innovative health programs and strengthening Nigeria’s resilience against the epidemic.
NIBUCAA remains committed to mobilizing the private sector to transform Nigeria’s HIV response, promoting sustainable solutions and ensuring quality services are accessible to all Nigerians. Through community-based interventions and advocacy for public health policies, NIBUCAA and its partners continue to make a significant impact in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
