Exploring the role of religious leaders in promoting positive sexual practices to reduce the prevalence of HIV/AIDS amongst young adults in Aba, Nigeria: a qualitative study

Despite attempts to control the HIV epidemic in Nigeria, especially amongst young adults, prevalence is increasing. The aim of this study was to provide insights to strengthen the positive impact of religious leaders in preventing HIV/AIDS amongst young adults. Qualitative descriptive research was carried out. Purposive sampling was used to identify religious leaders (Christian or Muslim) and young adults (aged 20–24) who are active in their faith communities in Aba, Nigeria, chosen due to its high prevalence of HIV amongst young people. Religious leaders were recruited through publicly available contact details. Young adult participants were recruited through religious youth groups on Facebook. Online, semi-structured interviews were carried out. Findings were analysed thematically. Seven religious leaders (six male, one female) and seven young adults (five male, two female), all Christian, participated. Results found that young people may lack appropriate knowledge on HIV prevention, and that this topic is not often discussed in church. Religious leaders were seen as influential, with different platforms to engage youth. They could have a positive or negative impact on HIV prevention practices, for instance, by reinforcing stigmatising rhetoric around HIV and discouraging condom use. Capacitating religious leaders with adequate knowledge on HIV and supporting the adoption of a more liberal and pragmatic approach to HIV/AIDS prevention may enable positive impact.