The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) guarantees Nigerians a consistent availability of HIV medications.
The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has reassured the Nigerian public, especially individuals living with HIV, that the nation maintains a robust supply of antiretroviral medications, despite the World Health Organization’s (WHO) concerns about the impacts of halted U.S. foreign aid.
This follows WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus’s statement on March 17, warning that the U.S. government’s suspension of foreign aid could endanger millions of lives and reverse 20 years of progress in HIV treatment efforts in countries such as Nigeria, Haiti, Kenya, Lesotho, South Sudan, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Ukraine.
Ghebreyesus highlighted that the cessation of aid by the U.S. government could result in over 10 million new HIV infections and three million HIV-related deaths. This suspension, enacted by President Donald Trump shortly after his inauguration in January, has also adversely affected global initiatives against polio, malaria, and tuberculosis.
In response, NACA’s Director-General Dr. Temitope Ilori reassured Nigerians that the Federal Government has implemented measures to avert a shortage of HIV medications.
“The Federal Executive Council approved $1.07 billion to support healthcare sector reforms under the Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity initiative, along with an allocation of N4.8 billion for HIV treatment. Additionally, the Nigerian Senate recently designated an extra N300 billion for the health sector in the 2025 budget,” Ilori confirmed.
She further elaborated that these allocations are part of the government’s comprehensive strategy to address the impact of the U.S. aid suspension and close the immediate funding shortfall.
“While recognizing the U.S. government’s support and partnership over the past two decades, the Nigerian government views this pause as a chance to mobilize resources, assume ownership, and guarantee the sustainability of the country’s HIV response,” she added.
“We assure Nigerians, particularly those living with HIV, that there is no drug shortage or immediate halt of services for HIV treatment, testing, and prevention in Nigeria. Our treatment centers and pharmacies will continue to have sufficient antiretroviral drugs, ensuring uninterrupted access to care.”
On March 18, Dr. Amobi Ogah, Chairman of the House Committee on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, confirmed that the Federal Government has allocated N700 billion to combat HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, and enhance immunization initiatives. This funding aims to mitigate the effects of the U.S. administration’s financial support withdrawal.
NACA reaffirmed its dedication to combatting HIV/AIDS and ensuring that all Nigerians have access to superior prevention, treatment, and care services.
