The Lagos State AIDS Control Agency has warned that stigma, discrimination and gender-based violence could discourage people from seeking HIV testing, treatment and other essential services.
The agency said denial of services and other violations of people’s rights could also undermine efforts to prevent and control HIV across the state.
LSACA’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Folakemi Animashaun, made the remarks at the end of a two-day legal and rights-protection training held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The programme, which ended on Thursday, brought together gender-based violence focal persons, service providers and officers responsible for connecting people with health and support services.
Discrimination can discourage access to care
Animashaun said experiences of abuse, discrimination and denial of services could prevent people from seeking HIV testing, treatment, care and support.
She called for closer cooperation between government agencies, law enforcement bodies, healthcare providers, community organisations and other institutions involved in responding to HIV and gender-based violence.
According to a statement reported by Punch, LSACA has a responsibility to intervene when gender-based violence, discrimination or other rights violations are connected to a person’s real or perceived HIV status.
The agency also wants stronger links between healthcare services and social-protection systems so that affected people can receive appropriate legal, medical and psychosocial assistance without unnecessary delays.
Confidentiality remains important
Participants at the training were reminded that people living with HIV and survivors of gender-based violence often disclose sensitive personal information while seeking help.
Service providers were therefore urged to protect clients’ confidentiality and handle their information responsibly.
LSACA also called for better documentation, referral and follow-up procedures. The agency said people requiring assistance should not be lost between the institutions responsible for healthcare, legal protection and psychosocial support.
The training was designed to help frontline workers identify rights violations, understand referral procedures and improve access to support for vulnerable people.
Nigeria has legal protection against discrimination
Nigeria’s HIV and AIDS Anti-Discrimination Act 2014 prohibits discrimination based on a person’s real or perceived HIV status.
The law protects access to employment and services and restricts compulsory HIV testing in circumstances not permitted by law.
However, legal protection alone does not remove the fear of rejection or mistreatment that may prevent people from seeking care.
The World Health Organization says stigma-free health services are essential to improving HIV outcomes. Discrimination can affect whether people seek testing, remain in treatment or disclose their status safely.
Nigeria joined the Global Partnership for Action to Eliminate All Forms of HIV-Related Stigma and Discrimination in 2025. UNAIDS said at the time that stigma and discrimination continued to restrict access to prevention, testing and treatment services.
LSACA’s warning places responsibility on public institutions and service providers to ensure that people living with or affected by HIV can obtain help without fear, abuse or loss of dignity.
