NACA says US aid halt won’t affect HIV care in Nigeria

The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has assured Nigerians that there is sufficient supply of HIV medications in the country.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) had said the United States’ decision to halt foreign aid disrupted the supply of HIV treatments in Nigeria, Haiti, Kenya, Lesotho, South Sudan, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Ukraine.

Speaking at a press conference, Tedros Ghebreyesus, WHO director-general, said the halt to foreign aid could put millions of lives at risk.

“The disruptions to HIV programnes could undo 20 years of progress,” he said.

Ghebreyesus warned that this setback could lead to over 10 million new HIV cases and three million HIV-related deaths.

Reacting in a statement on Wednesday, Temitope Ilori, director-general of NACA, reassured Nigerians, particularly those living with HIV, that the country “has a steady supply” of antiretroviral drugs.

Ilori said the federal government has taken proactive measures to address the potential shortage of HIV drugs in the country.

“The Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved $1.07 Billion to finance the healthcare sector reforms under the Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity (HOPE) program, and also approved N4.8 billion for HIV treatment, while the Nigerian Senate also recently allocated an additional N300 billion to the health sector in the 2025 budget,” the statement reads.

“These allocations are part of the government’s efforts to cushion the impact of the US government’s aid pause and close the immediate funding gap.

“While acknowledging the US government’s support and partnership over the past two decades, the Nigerian government sees this pause as an opportunity to mobilize resources, take ownership, and ensure the sustainability of HIV response in the country.”

The director-general assured that there is no shortage of drugs and consumables, and no immediate stop of services for HIV treatment, testing, and prevention in Nigeria.

“Our treatment centers and pharmacies will continue to have sufficient anti-retroviral drugs, ensuring uninterrupted access to care,” the statement added.

“NACA remains committed to the fight against HIV/AIDS and ensuring that all Nigerians have access to quality HIV prevention, treatment, and care services.”