A Programme Director of the Support for Women and Teenage Children (SWATCH), an NGO, Dr Farida Abdulmalik, has identified stigma, denial and economic hardship as major drivers of new cases of HIV/AIDS in Kano State.
Abdulmalik made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Kano.
“Stigma remains a major barrier to testing and treatment uptake.
“Some patients are afraid their families or communities will find out, while others stigmatise themselves and withdraw from society,” she warned.
She added that denial of HIV status continues to contribute to complications and preventable deaths.
“Denial is a serious issue. We have seen cases where pregnant women refused to accept their status, leading to transmission to their children,” Abdulmalik said.
Abdulmalik further said that non-disclosure of HIV status among families, especially for children born with the virus, was a major concern.
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“Some children take medication without knowing why. This becomes dangerous as they grow, particularly during adolescence,” she noted.
Abdulmalik, however, explained that recent sensitisation campaigns have improved willingness among residents to undergo testing, describing it as a positive development.
She said that the data from the first quarter of 2026 showed that the state recorded over 800 new infections between January and March.
According to her, although the figure is worrisome, the situation remains manageable with proper treatment and sustained interventions.
“We can manage the existing cases effectively, but prevention of new infections must remain a top priority,” she emphasised.
The programme director identified sexually active adolescents and young people as the most vulnerable group.
She linked the trend to economic hardship, noting that many teenagers engage in risky behaviours, including transactional sex to survive.
“When you look closely at some hotels and informal sectors, you will find a significant number of young girls exposed to infection. The numbers are alarming,” she warned.
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On access to services, she said HIV testing and treatment are available across primary healthcare centres in the state, with free antiretroviral drugs and trained case managers supporting patients.
She commended the Kano State Government for providing free treatment and strengthening response efforts.
She called for a state-specific HIV/AIDS policy, increased community engagement through religious leaders, improved disclosure practices, and expanded awareness campaigns.
“Everyone should know their HIV/AIDS status. People should stop hiding—HIV is not a death sentence.
“With proper treatment, individuals can live normal, productive lives,” she said. (NAN)
