By Joseph Erunke, Abuja

The Health Services and Environment Secretariat of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has announced a highly participatory, community-centered program for the 2025 World AIDS Day commemoration.

According to a statement released Thursday in Abuja by Bola Ajao, Special Assistant on Media to the Mandate Secretary, this year’s theme is “Overcoming Disruption: Sustaining Nigeria’s HIV Response.”

Under the directive of the Mandate Secretary, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, the Secretariat will host a one-day high-level symposium aimed at intensifying awareness and supporting national efforts to combat HIV/AIDS. The event is scheduled for Tuesday, December 2, 2025, in Abuja.

Speaking on the upcoming commemoration, Director of Public Health, Dr. Dan Gadzama, noted that the symposium will bring together policymakers, health professionals, development agencies, persons living with HIV/AIDS, and local community representatives. He said the event will provide a platform to review achievements, strengthen collaborations, and develop more effective models for HIV support services in the FCT.

Also speaking on preparations, State Programme Coordinator for HIV/AIDS, STIs, and Viral Hepatitis, Dr. Fatima Daggash, emphasized that December 1 remains a global day of remembrance and recommitment. “It is a time to honor those lost to AIDS, recognize milestones in treatment and prevention, and reinforce the collective pledge to end the epidemic,” she said.

Dr. Daggash further revealed that activities in the FCT will include free HIV testing and counseling, alongside extensive community sensitization campaigns to promote early detection, maintain viral suppression, enhance linkage to treatment, and reduce stigma toward affected persons.