The National Workplace Policy on HIV/AIDS, which was introduced by the federal government, aims to foster an inclusive, caring, and team-oriented culture in the country’s workplaces.
The Federal Ministry of Labor and Employment said in a statement on Friday that the policy was developed in partnership with the International Labor Organization with the goal of strengthening communities to withstand the challenges presented by HIV/AIDS.
As part of the events commemorating the 2023 World Day Against HIV/AIDS, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, introduced the policy in Abuja.
She called the policy’s introduction a noteworthy turning point in Nigeria’s efforts to create workplaces that are more than just places to work.
She declared, “This policy serves as a comprehensive framework, acknowledging the distinctive role workplaces play in the lives of individuals and communities.”
Onyejeocha pointed out that the policy would represent the Federal Government’s commitment to the prosperity of the country and the workforce.
Declaring that the HIV/AIDS crisis necessitated a comprehensive and cooperative response, the minister urged trade unions, employers, employees, and all other relevant parties to embrace and diligently carry out the policy.
According to Onyejeocha, the theme of the 2023 World Day Against AIDS, “Let Communities Lead,” encapsulated the spirit of group efforts and the vital role that diverse communities’ resilience and leadership play in the coordinated efforts to address the problems brought on by HIV/AIDS.
The minister added that this year’s theme, which “recognizes that communities are not passive recipients but pivotal leaders in the fight against the pandemic,” called for a paradigm shift in the way that HIV/AIDS response is approached.
“We strengthen the basis of our response and map a more resilient and sustainable path forward by empowering communities.”
“Our communities, far from being passive recipients of interventions, become engaged change agents equipped to eliminate stigma, increase consciousness, and foster a supportive and understanding environment.”
Prior to this, Emmanuel Igbinosun, the Director in charge of the Ministry’s Office of the Permanent Secretary, stated that the policy placed a strong emphasis on a community-centric approach, acknowledging the special role that workplaces play in the lives of individuals and communities.
He went on, “It is intended to foster inclusivity and awareness as well as to offer a framework for the management, support, and prevention of HIV/AIDS within the workforce.”
The National Policy on HIV/AIDS, according to Igbinosun, represents a major advancement in the group’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive workplace.
Igbinosun noted that this year’s World AIDS Day theme encouraged communities to actively shape the narrative, debunk myths, and offer support to those impacted by HIV/AIDS.
Vanessa Phala, the ILO’s Country Director, reiterated the organization’s commitment to bolstering national efforts to combat HIV/AIDS.
Stephen Agugua, speaking on behalf of Phala, urged all interested parties to back the government’s efforts to fortify Nigeria’s national HIV and AIDS response and expand HIV policies and initiatives throughout the nation.
