Stigmatization And The Fight Against HIV/AIDS In Dekina Local Government Area, Kogi State, Nigeria

HIV/AIDS-related stigma remains one of the most persistent barriers to effective prevention, testing, treatment, and psychosocial wellbeing of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA), especially in sub-Saharan Africa. This study examined the impact of stigmatization on the fight against HIV/AIDS in Dekina Local Government Area (LGA) of Kogi State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, with quantitative approach. Primary data were collected using a self-designed and validated questionnaire administered to 400 respondents selected through multi-stage, cluster, and simple random sampling techniques. In-depth interviews were also conducted with selected healthcare workers to complement the survey data. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency and percentage) and inferential statistics (chi-square) with the aid of SPSS. Findings revealed a high prevalence of HIV/AIDS-related stigma in the study area, with stigma manifesting in families, social networks, workplaces, and even within healthcare settings. Stigmatization was found to significantly reduce the utilization of HIV testing, counseling, and treatment services, thereby undermining public health interventions. The study concluded that combating stigma through sustained public enlightenment, supportive legislation, community engagement, and improved access to confidential health services is critical to strengthening the HIV/AIDS response. It recommended intensified awareness campaigns, legal protection for PLWHA, empowerment of affected persons through support groups, and expansion of counseling and testing services.