The Honourable Minister of State, Labour and Employment, Hon.(Barr) Nkeiruka Onyejiocha has stated that the launch of the National Workplace Policy on HIV/AIDS is a robust framework designed to fortify communities and instil within the workplace a culture of inclusivity, compassion, and collective responsibility. Onyejiocha stated this in her Keynote address on the occasion of the commemoration of the 2023 World AIDS Day and launch of the National Workplace Policy on HIV/AIDS held in Abuja under the theme “Let Communities Lead ” emphasizes the crucial role that the leadership and resilience of our diverse communities play in our joint efforts to address the challenges posed by HIV/AIDS.
Her words: “Our communities, far from being mere recipients of interventions, emerge as active agents of change endowed with the ability to dispel stigma, raise awareness, and cultivate an environment marked by understanding and support”.
According to her, this year’s commemoration is predicted on Global context, the Role of Employment, and challenges.
She also stressed the need of paradigm shift in HIV/AIDS Response, Awareness creation and workplace integration.
This year’s commemoration culminated with the launch of the National workplace, and call to Transformation.
In her goodwill message at the occasion, Ms Vanessa Phala, Director ILO Office for Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone and Liason Office for ECOWAS who was ably represented by Stephen Agugua noted that the revision and implementation of the National HIV/AIDS Workplace Policy should contribute to enhancing the policy and legal environment for HIV and AIDS workplace programme.
She further stated: “A conducive policy environment is critical to facilitating the uptake of VCT. Building the necessary synergies between these initiatives is therefore key to maximising impact.
The usefulness of a policy lies in its effective and efficient implementation. Earlier, in his welcome address, the Director Overseeing the Office of Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Mr. Emmanuel Igbinosun, noted that the world AIDS Day provides us with a poignant opportunity to reflect on the progress we have made in the fight against HIV/AIDS, to remember those who have been affected, and to renew our dedication to building a healthier and more resilient future.
This year’s theme “Let Communities Lead ” resonates profoundly with the ethos of shared responsibility and empowerment.
There were also goodwill messages from Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Nigeria Employers Consultative Assembly (NECA).
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