By Daniel Tyokua
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) on Tuesday launched a N41.2 billion strategic plan aimed at eliminating AIDS as a public health threat in Abuja by 2030.
Tagged the “Abuja Compact,” the FCT HIV and AIDS Strategic Plan (FSP) 2025–2027 sets out to address demographic disparities, structural stigma, and a 98% funding gap in the territory’s HIV response.
The launch, held in brought together civil society organizations, international development partners, and networks of People Living with HIV (PLHIV).
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of Dr. Adedolape Fasawe,
Speaking at the launch, the Mandate Secretary of the FCTA Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe said Abuja’s HIV burden has remained above the national average since the Nigeria HIV/AIDS indicator and impact survey.
Fasawe represented Dr. Dan Gadzama of public health, said FCT has achieved a 100% antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation rate among identified patients, Dr. Fasawe warned against mistaking activity for progress.
She said, “Activity is not victory,” she said, highlighting critical gaps in the current response. Men and boys are slipping through the cracks, accounting for only 32% of adults on treatment. Just 2% of children who need HIV treatment are receiving care, leaving 98% unsupported.
Fasawe identifield populations, including sex workers, men who have sex with men, and people who inject drugs, account for 12% of new infections but remain underserved due to deep-rooted social stigma.
“If we continue business as usual, the 2030 target to end AIDS will be a mirage. The FSP 2025–2027 changes the rules of engagement,” Dr. Fasawe said.
In her remarks, Project Manager of the FCT Agency for the Control of AIDS (FACA), Dr. Doris John, said the document reflects the collective will, rigorous analysis, and commitment of all stakeholders.
“The clock is ticking towards the 2030 target to end AIDS as a public health threat,” she said, urging the media to help break the silence and stigma surrounding HIV.
“Let us engage and deliberate on a renewed covenant to achieve an AIDS-free FCT by 2030. A roadmap is useless without travellers. We commit to being those travellers. We commit to walking the difficult road of equity, justice, and health for all residents of the FCT—from Maitama and Asokoro to the rural communities of Abaji and Kuje,” John added.
The strategy shifts from donor-dependent frameworks to align with the national “Alignment 2.0” agenda, emphasizing local ownership and community-led execution. It is built on three pillars.
