Stigma and Hardship Fuel New HIV Infections in Kano

Dr. Farida Abdulmalik, the program director of an NGO, reported that stigma, denial, and economic hardship are significant factors contributing to new HIV infections in Kano State.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Tuesday, she emphasized that stigma remains a major barrier to testing and treatment, as patients fear being ostracized by their families and communities. Denial of HIV status, particularly among pregnant women, complicates prevention efforts and can lead to transmission to children.

Abdulmalik noted that recent sensitization campaigns have improved the willingness of residents to undergo testing. However, data from the first quarter of 2026 revealed that Kano recorded 800 new infections from January to March.

She highlighted that economic hardship drives teenagers to engage in risky behaviors, including transactional sex. Access to HIV testing and treatment services is available across primary healthcare centers in the state, with free antiretroviral drugs provided.

Abdulmalik called for increased community engagement and the implementation of specific HIV aid policies.