Nigeria Faces Stigma and Discrimination on Zero Day 2026

The 2026 Zero Discrimination Day, marked globally, focuses on the plight of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) and the stigma associated with the disease. According to UNAIDS, 30,000 people live with HIV across 25 countries, with 85% experiencing internalized stigma that hinders treatment and health access.

In Nigeria, the situation is dire, with an estimated two million people infected and a prevalence rate of 3.1% among those aged 15-49. The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) reports that discrimination remains a significant barrier to health services, exacerbated by societal stigma.

The report indicates that discrimination against high-risk groups, including prisoners and drug users, is prevalent, with 2.8% of inmates and 9% of people who inject drugs living with HIV. Launched in December 2013, the Zero Discrimination Day initiative aims to combat HIV-related stigma and promote human rights, emphasizing the urgent need for strategic action to address these challenges in Nigeria.