The National Agency for the Control of AIDS, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, and other development partners are set to optimise innovative HIV prevention and strategies for increased domestic funding towards community ownership and sustainability of HIV. The event which will be held between 7 and 9 May in Abuja, was contained in a statement issued on Friday and signed by the agency's public relations officer, Toyin Aderibige. The conference tagged "Accelerating HIV Prevention to End AIDS through Innovations and Community Engagement," aims at opening dialogue on optimistic innovative HIV prevention approaches towards achieving HIV epidemic control. It will also showcase a diverse array of sessions including dedicated tracks on youth empowerment, community engagement sessions, leadership discussions, plenary sessions, sponsored sessions, and special sessions.
According to the statement, the agency’s Director General, Temitope Ilori, said the objective is to strategise for increased domestic funding towards community ownership and sustainability of HIV prevention programmes.
She said the conference will adopt a hybrid format, allowing physical and virtual participation.
“The first ever HIV prevention conference will serve as a pivotal platform for everyone to unite in their efforts and effect tangible advancements towards ending the HIV epidemic in Nigeria,” she said.
She noted that the conference which will be physical and virtual will allow participants to explore a spectrum of innovative approaches and engagement strategies, with a particular emphasis on the transformative role young people can play in achieving change.
“We eagerly anticipate the attendance of policymakers, representatives from international organisations, academia, state delegates, non-governmental organisations, development partners, media professionals, and other stakeholders involved in the national response,” she added.
