Federal and state authorities are urged to fund the Girls Act programme to protect young women and girls from HIV infections.
The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) has officially called on federal and state governments in Nigeria to adopt and fund its Girls Act programme,, as part of urgent efforts to reduce HIV infections among adolescent girls and young women.
The appeal was made public through a statement signed by Steve Aborisade, the Senior Advocacy and Marketing Manager for AHF, and issued to newsmen in Makurdi.
According to the organisation, empowering young females through comprehensive health services, education, and economic support is vital to tackling the root causes of their vulnerability, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
Addressing the Root Causes of Vulnerability
Adolescent girls and young women continue to bear a disproportionate burden of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Factors such as poverty, gender inequality, and limited access to reliable health information heavily restrict their ability to make safe choices regarding sexual health.
Many young individuals who drop out of school, cannot afford basic menstrual products, or rely entirely on financial support from others face extremely limited options. These socioeconomic challenges significantly increase their exposure to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
How the Girls Act Programme Operates
Launched globally in 2016, the Girls Act initiative was created specifically to address high HIV infection rates among vulnerable demographics. Operating on a For Girls, By Girls framework, the programme has successfully expanded to nearly 40 countries worldwide.
As of 2026, the initiative boasts more than 4,500 active participants and has successfully distributed over one million sanitary pads. The model uniquely combines health education, leadership training, and economic empowerment to support both HIV-positive and HIV-negative youths.
Vocational Training and Community Outreach
Beyond traditional healthcare access, the project equips participants with practical vocational skills to foster financial independence. In cities like Abuja and Benue, young women receive training in bead-making, tie-and-dye, tote-bag production, and snack preparation.
Furthermore, AHF collaborates with Education as a Vaccine (EVA) to implement a dedicated leadership academy in Nigeria. Community-level outreach ensures that out-of-school girls and those living in remote areas are never excluded from essential resources and education.
Government Integration and Funding Call
The organisation maintains that non-governmental entities cannot tackle these complex challenges alone. AHF is strongly urging the Nigerian government to integrate the Girls Act model directly into national and state development plans.
Specific recommendations include dedicating budget lines for menstrual health products, providing start-up support for skills training, and establishing clear pathways linking young people to essential HIV testing, treatment, and care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Girls Act programme?
The Girls Act is a global initiative launched by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation in 2016 to reduce HIV infections, support treatment adherence, and empower adolescent girls and young women.
Who signed the statement calling for the adoption of the Girls Act?
The statement was signed by Steve Aborisade, the Senior Advocacy and Marketing Manager for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, in Makurdi.
What practical skills are taught through the initiative in Nigeria?
Participants in locations such as Abuja and Benue receive vocational training in bead-making, tie-and-dye, tote-bag production, and the preparation of various snacks.
Which organisation collaborates with AHF on youth leadership in Nigeria?
AHF collaborates with Education as a Vaccine (EVA) to implement a leadership academy aimed at developing the capacity of young people in the country.
