Funke Akindele appointed UNAIDS National Goodwill Ambassador

The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) is excited to announce the appointment of Funke Akindele, a celebrated actress, producer, and director, as its new National Goodwill Ambassador (GWA) for Nigeria.

This esteemed appointment recognizes Akindele’s exceptional contributions to the fight against HIV, along with her steadfast commitment to advocacy, awareness-raising, and driving efforts to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

Funke Akindele first gained prominence with her role in the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)-sponsored TV series I Need to Know, which focused on adolescent reproductive health, including HIV awareness. Since then, she has captured global audiences, earning millions of fans and critical acclaim for her remarkable performances. Known as the “Queen of Box Office” in Nollywood, Funke holds the top three positions among the highest-grossing Nollywood films of all time, a testament to her influence in the industry.

For over two decades, Funke Akindele has broken barriers and leveraged her platform to champion social causes, effect positive change, and raise awareness on vital issues. As UNAIDS’ National Goodwill Ambassador, she will support efforts to eliminate vertical transmission of HIV, combat HIV-related stigma and discrimination, and promote HIV prevention throughout Nigeria.

The official announcement of her appointment was made during the World AIDS Day commemoration in Abuja on December 3, 2024, in an event led by the United Nations Resident Coordinator for Nigeria, Mr. Mohammed M. Malick Fall.