The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) assured Nigerians, particularly Persons Living With HIV (PLWHIV), that antiretroviral drugs remain consistently available nationwide. This announcement responds to recent World Health Organisation (WHO) warnings about potential medication shortages in Nigeria and seven other countries following the United States’ suspension of HIV-related foreign aid.
To address concerns, NACA Director-General Temitope Ilori emphasized the federal government’s proactive steps. Specifically, she highlighted financial commitments to safeguard HIV treatment continuity. “The Federal Executive Council approved $1.07 billion for healthcare reforms under the HOPE program,” she stated. Additionally, the government allocated N4.8 billion directly to HIV care and secured an extra N300 billion for health in the 2025 budget through Senate approval.
Furthermore, Nigeria earmarked N700 billion to tackle HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, Malaria, and immunization programs. These measures aim to counterbalance halted U.S. aid and close urgent funding gaps. Ilori stressed that such investments not only resolve immediate challenges but also fortify long-term healthcare resilience.
“We assure Nigerians, especially PLWHIV, that HIV services—including treatment, testing, and prevention—operate without interruption,” she affirmed. The statement seeks to calm fears among patients and healthcare providers reliant on uninterrupted drug access.
Consequently, Nigeria’s prioritization of health funding signals a commitment to self-reliance amid external uncertainties. By channeling resources into critical areas, the government strives to stabilize supply chains and maintain public trust. Simultaneously, these efforts underscore the importance of domestic funding to sustain health systems during global aid fluctuations.
Ultimately, the proactive financial strategy reflects Nigeria’s determination to protect vulnerable populations. Through sustained reforms and targeted allocations, the nation aims to prevent treatment disruptions and uphold health equity. This approach not only addresses current anxieties but also lays groundwork for a more resilient healthcare future.
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