Kano State recorded more than 800 new HIV infections in the first quarter of 2026, according to Dr Farida Abdulmalik, programme director of a non‑governmental organisation that supports women and teenage children. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, Abdulmalik identified stigma, denial and economic hardship as the main drivers of the increase.
Stigma remains a significant obstacle to testing and treatment, she said. Many individuals fear disclosure to family or community, while others internalise the prejudice and withdraw from society. This reluctance delays diagnosis and hampers access to antiretroviral therapy.
Denial of HIV status also contributes to preventable complications and deaths. Abdulmalik cited cases of pregnant women who refused to accept their diagnosis, resulting in mother‑to‑child transmission. She added that non‑disclosure among families, especially for children born with the virus, poses long‑term risks. “Some children take medication without knowing why; this becomes dangerous as they grow, particularly during adolescence,” she explained.
Recent sensitisation campaigns have improved willingness to test, according to Abdulmalik. Nonetheless, the quarter’s figures—over 800 new infections between January and March—remain concerning. She stressed that while existing cases can be managed with appropriate treatment, preventing new infections must stay a priority.
The programme director highlighted sexually active adolescents and young people as the most vulnerable group. Economic hardship forces many teenagers into risky behaviours, including transactional sex, to survive. “In some hotels and informal sectors, a significant number of young girls are exposed to infection,” she warned.
Access to services is available through primary health‑care centres across the state, where free HIV testing, antiretroviral drugs and trained case managers are provided. Abdulmalik praised the Kano State Government for offering free treatment and strengthening response efforts, but called for a state‑specific HIV/AIDS policy, greater community engagement through religious leaders, improved disclosure practices and expanded awareness campaigns.
“Everyone should know their HIV status. People should stop hiding—HIV is not a death sentence,” she said. “With proper treatment, individuals can live normal, productive lives.” Continued monitoring, sustained interventions and targeted prevention strategies are essential to curb the rising infection rates in Kano.
