Abuja: Dr. Temitope Ilori, Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), announced significant progress in Nigeria’s efforts to meet the 2030 target of ending AIDS as a public health threat. This declaration was made during a news conference organized ahead of World AIDS Day (WAD) in Abuja, themed ‘Overcoming Disruption: Sustaining Nigeria’s HIV Response.’
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Ilori highlighted that Nigeria has successfully met two of the three global HIV targets for 2030. These strides underscore the country’s advancements in HIV prevention, testing, and treatment. The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS) has set 95-95-95 targets to ensure that by 2030, 95% of individuals living with HIV are aware of their status, 95% of diagnosed individuals receive sustained antiretroviral therapy, and 95% of those on therapy achieve viral suppression.
Dr. Ilori emphasized Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to ending AIDS as a public health threat, citing the country’s 87-98-95 performance against the global targets. This includes 87% of people living with HIV knowing their status, 98% of those diagnosed receiving treatment, and 95% achieving viral suppression.
Over the past decade, Nigeria has seen a 46% decline in new HIV infections, with more Nigerians living with HIV enrolled in care. However, challenges remain, particularly in the prevention of mother-to-child transmission and ensuring early infant diagnosis and pediatric treatment.
Despite global disruptions, Nigeria’s HIV response has remained robust. In 2024, over 204,201 individuals from key populations received antiretroviral therapy, with strong viral suppression rates. Efforts to mobilize domestic resources have intensified, and states are increasing budget allocations to strengthen HIV Trust Funds.
The Federal Government has also played a crucial role by allocating $200 million to maintain essential HIV services amid global funding uncertainties. Yet, challenges such as stigma, discrimination, reliance on external funding, and limited access in remote areas persist.
Mr. Gabriel Undelikwo of UNAIDS commended Nigeria’s dedication to strengthening national systems and securing local financing. He reiterated UNAIDS’ support, emphasizing the importance of sustained leadership, collaboration, and community empowerment to achieve the 2030 goal.
Dr. Jay Samuels from APIN Public Health Initiatives reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to closing treatment gaps and ending the epidemic, despite changes in global funding. Mr. Omoniyi Amos from the World Health Organization underscored the need for sustainable, locally-led systems and efforts to combat stigmatization and misinformation.