The 2026 World AIDS Day Central Planning and Organising Committee, constituted by the Plateau AIDS Control Agency (PLACA), has commenced preparations for this year’s commemoration with the establishment of eight subcommittees to drive planning, coordination and implementation of activities across Plateau State.
The development followed the committee’s inaugural meeting, during which its Chairman, Professor Esther Yiltok, charged members to embrace collaboration, commitment and collective responsibility to ensure a successful and impactful World AIDS Day celebration in the state.
Professor Yiltok, while reviewing the committee’s Terms of Reference, described the outlined responsibilities as comprehensive and achievable, noting, however, that members could make necessary adjustments where appropriate to strengthen the committee’s effectiveness and improve the delivery of its mandate.
She urged members to approach their assignments with a strong sense of purpose, stressing the need for effective coordination and teamwork to make the 2026 World AIDS Day commemoration stand out.
The chairman reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring that this year’s event records significant success, adding that the committee must begin laying a solid foundation for the programme despite the fact that Nigeria is yet to officially announce the theme for the 2026 commemoration.
According to her, preparations would proceed through the establishment of specialised subcommittees to handle specific aspects of the planning process, ensuring that activities are well organised and that the committee’s objectives are achieved.
Following extensive deliberations, members approved the establishment of eight subcommittees to facilitate the execution of the committee’s responsibilities. The Subcommittee on Advocacy will be coordinated by members of the Central Planning and Organising Committee.
The subcommittee structure is expected to promote the division of responsibilities, strengthen stakeholder engagement and ensure a more coordinated approach to the planning and execution of activities marking World AIDS Day 2026 in Plateau State.
The committee’s work is particularly significant as World AIDS Day provides an opportunity to raise public awareness about HIV and AIDS, promote prevention and testing, encourage access to treatment and support services, and address stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV.
It will be recalled that, during the inauguration of the Central Planning and Organising Committee by PLACA, members were mandated to develop and coordinate the 2026 World AIDS Day activity plan, ensure alignment with approved global and national priorities, mobilise relevant stakeholders, and coordinate advocacy, media, publicity and community mobilisation initiatives.
The committee is also expected to provide the necessary coordination to ensure that the commemoration translates into meaningful public engagement and renewed commitment to HIV prevention, care and support across Plateau State.
With the establishment of the eight subcommittees, preparations for World AIDS Day 2026 have formally moved into the implementation planning phase, with expectations that coordinated efforts will deliver a memorable and impactful commemoration.
