Stakeholders from across the public, private, and development sectors have renewed calls for the review and full implementation of the HIV and AIDS Anti-Discrimination Act 2014.

The call was made during a three-day stakeholders’ meeting organised by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in Lagos, aimed at combating stigma, discrimination, and human rights violations against people living with or affected by HIV/AIDS.

The event drew participants from the Federal Ministry of Justice, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), UNAIDS, the World Health Organisation (WHO), civil society organisations, legal and medical professionals. In his opening remarks, NHRC Executive Secretary, Tony Ojukwu (SAN) emphasised the urgency of building a more inclusive and rights-based society.

“This meeting marks a crucial step in our collective journey to build a more inclusive, compassionate, and rights-respecting Nigeria. Your presence reflects our shared commitment to safeguarding the dignity and rights of every Nigerian, regardless of health status or social orientation,” he said. He explained that the 2014 Act prohibits discrimination based on HIV status in employment, education, healthcare, and other public spheres.

It also guarantees privacy, access to justice, and protection from abuse for people living with HIV. Despite its significance, stakeholders at the meeting acknowledged that implementation has been inconsistent nationwide.

“Discrimination remains rampant in workplaces, health services, educational institutions, and even religious settings. This has gone on far too long, and it is our mandate to reverse this tide,” Ojukwu declared. He added that while several states have adopted similar laws, gaps remain both in enforcement and in the Act’s coverage.

“The NHRC is currently leading efforts to assess and potentially amend the law to address new and emerging challenges, particularly around key populations and co-morbid conditions like tuberculosis.

“This initiative forms part of NHRC’s engagement under the Global Fund’s Grant Cycle 7 (GC7), aimed at removing barriers to justice and services for People Living With HIV/AIDS (PLWHAs) and key populations (KPs),” he said.

Senior Human Rights Adviser at NHRC, Hilary Ogbonna highlighted how evolving societal and medical realities necessitate a more inclusive legal framework.

“New forms of discrimination have emerged, and new populations now need protection for people living with TB, those facing multiple health issues, and men who have sex with men. These were not adequately addressed when the Act was drafted,” he said.

Director General, NACA, Dr. Temitope Ilori, emphasised the need for better identification of discriminatory practices. Ilori, who was represented by Deputy Director, Head, Gender and Human Rights, NACA, Dr. Chukwugozie Ibam said: “You can’t solve a problem if you don’t know what the problem is. We need to clearly identify what constitutes discrimination in all its forms – cultural, religious, or systemic.

“Currently, only 18 of Nigeria’s 36 states have domesticated the Anti-Discrimination Act.” NACA urged stakeholders to push for broader adoption nationwide.

Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) reiterated the federal government’s commitment to upholding human rights. The AGF, who was represented by the Director, Citizens’ Rights Department of his office, Ms. Roseline Tasha, said no Nigerian should suffer discrimination in any form.

He said, “This engagement is timely. We must stand together to create an inclusive society where everyone can thrive.” Country Director, UNAIDS, Dr. Leopold Zekeng, added that discrimination continues to hinder prevention, treatment, and care, noting that women and girls are often disproportionately affected.

Oluwafisayo Fakayode, who represented the country director, said such violations push vulnerable groups to the margins of society, denying them access to healthcare, safety, and dignity.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Afam Osigwe (SAN) described HIV-related discrimination as a gross violation of human rights. Osigwe, who was represented by Director, Programmes Department of the NBA, Oti Edah, pledged the Association’s continued legal support in fighting the stigma.

“We urge Nigerians to embrace empathy and ensure no one is left behind,” he said.