FEATURE: Renewed Hope Global VTHC Kicks Off 2025 with Impactful Dialogue on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Progress

The Renewed Hope Global Virtual Town Hall Conference (RHGVTHC) commenced its 2025 weekly series with a powerful and informative session that left participants across continents deeply enlightened and inspired. This past weekend’s event featured a special guest whose insights and presentation reaffirmed the platform’s commitment to educating Nigerians worldwide on critical national issues and government reforms.

In a session themed around public health reform, Dr. Emmanuel Etim Clement, PhD, National Health Programme Consultant at the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), in collaboration with the European Union and United Nations, took center stage with a comprehensive, data-backed exposition on HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Dr. Clement presented slides filled with current statistics, policy frameworks, and impactful insights. He meticulously defined the virus and its progression to AIDS, explaining its modes of transmission—unprotected sex, contaminated instruments, drug use injections, and mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy—while dispelling common myths that fuel stigma, such as transmission through kissing, insect bites, or swimming pools.

Drawing on data from the 2018 Nigeria HIV/AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey (NAIIS), Dr. Clement disclosed that Nigeria’s national HIV prevalence rate stands at 1.3%, affecting nearly 1.98 million individuals. The majority—1.8 million—are adults aged 15 and above, with women comprising a significant portion.

He underscored the urgency of combating HIV in the wake of setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and outlined the National HIV and AIDS Strategic Plan (2023–2027), which aligns with Nigeria’s National Health Policy and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030.

In a significant policy move, Dr. Clement announced that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on February 3, 2025, approved a N4.8 billion fund to support free HIV treatment across Nigeria. This marks a notable demonstration of the administration’s commitment to healthcare reform and vulnerable populations.

Acknowledging the cultural and religious misconceptions about HIV in various regions, Dr. Clement highlighted the government’s partnership with religious and community leaders to foster accurate knowledge and community-based care. He urged Nigerians in the Diaspora to join the effort by offering global best practices to improve local responses.

Dr. Clement emphasized that people living with HIV (PLHIV) deserve support, not stigma. Interested professionals were invited to engage by contacting info@renewedhopeglobalconference.com or calling +44 758 695 1574.

The highlight of the event was the continued participation of Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President, alongside officials who tuned in from the Villa Conference Room. Their presence, along with stakeholders from the USA, Canada, Russia, and various African nations, reflected the widespread support for the RHGVTHC and its national significance.

Participants shared heartfelt feedback, expressing how the session changed their perceptions and deepened their understanding:

“I’m genuinely shocked by what I’ve learned today… I always assumed Lagos and Abuja were the epicentres of AIDS. Now I know Akwa Ibom, Benue, and Rivers States lead in prevalence.” – Alhaji Sanusi, Kano

“Kudos to NACA DG Dr. Temitope Ilori, Dr. Clement, and the government for championing this cause.” – Dr. Michael Tomori

“Pregnancy sir? I never knew this transmission route clearly. I’m better informed now.” – Hon. Khairat Animashaun-Ajiboye, USA

“I’m glad I attended this conference. It was eye-opening.” – Anjorin

The RHGVTHC extended appreciation to its media partners, including BEN TV UK, The Reflectors Newspaper (Nigeria), and Parrot Reporters Media Limited (South Africa) for amplifying the event’s impact.

As Nigeria continues to navigate economic recovery and public health reform, this administration urges all citizens to embrace Patience, Perseverance, Patriotism, and Prayers. The RHGVTHC remains a beacon for national dialogue, innovation, and international cooperation.

Participants are encouraged to come prepared each week with fresh ideas to advance the nation’s progress. Details of next week’s VVIP guest will be shared shortly. Kindly circulate the event flyer once released.

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Signed:

Amb. Joseph Kolawole Adebola Esq., MNIM; MCICN

Chairman/Chief Host

The Renewed Hope Global Virtual Town Hall Conference (RHGVTHC)