The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) has appointed Funke Akindele, one of Nollywood’s most prominent figures, as its National Goodwill Ambassador for Nigeria. The announcement, made on December 3, 2024, during the World AIDS Day commemoration in Abuja, signals a strategic shift in UNAIDS’ outreach strategy—leveraging the star power of the entertainment industry to amplify HIV awareness and combat stigma.
Funke Akindele’s selection is far from a symbolic gesture. Known for her commanding presence in Nollywood and her consistent advocacy for social causes, Akindele has proven that her influence extends well beyond the silver screen. Her role in the acclaimed UNFPA-sponsored series “I Need to Know”, which tackled adolescent reproductive health and HIV, marked the start of her long-standing commitment to using storytelling as a tool for societal change.
Now, as UNAIDS’ National Goodwill Ambassador, Akindele is poised to bring a fresh narrative to Nigeria’s HIV campaign—focusing on eliminating vertical transmission, reducing stigma, and promoting prevention. With 1.6 million Nigerians currently receiving treatment for HIV, her influence could be pivotal in reaching the remaining 400,000 people who lack access to care.
Despite significant progress, with new HIV infections dropping by 42.3% from 2010 to 2023, Nigeria still faces substantial challenges. Stigma and discrimination remain critical barriers to treatment access, particularly in rural and marginalized communities. UNAIDS hopes Akindele’s advocacy will bridge these gaps, inspiring broader acceptance and action.
Dr. Leopold Zekeng, UNAIDS Country Director for Nigeria, emphasized this point:
“Funke Akindele’s reach and resonance are unparalleled. Her dedication to social issues and her ability to connect with diverse audiences make her an indispensable partner in our mission to end AIDS by 2030.”
The collaboration between UNAIDS and Nigeria’s National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) underscores the importance of multi-sectoral partnerships in public health. By bringing a high-profile figure like Akindele into the fold, both organizations aim to inject new energy into their campaigns and reach younger, tech-savvy audiences who consume information through entertainment and social media.
Akindele’s appointment is not just about raising awareness; it’s a call to action for individuals, communities, and policymakers to unite in the fight against HIV. Her journey from an actress advocating for youth health to a national figure championing HIV prevention illustrates the evolving role of celebrities in global health initiatives.
