The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has denied recent reports circulating that suggest the Nigerian government has withdrawn Subsidies for Antiretroviral Therapy (ART). According to these claims, patients would now be required to pay as much as ₦250,000 per dose, translating to an estimated ₦500,000 per month for treatment. In response, the Director-General of NACA, Temitope Ilori, dismissed these allegations as false and misleading. In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, Ilori reaffirmed that HIV treatment remains free of charge at all government-approved health facilities across the country.
Ilori expressed gratitude to international donor agencies such as the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the Global Fund, and other development partners for their continued commitment to Nigeria’s fight against HIV/AIDS. Contrary to the claims of subsidy withdrawal, she assured Nigerians that there has been no Disruption in support from key stakeholders like the U.S. Government, USAID, or the World Health Organization (WHO). She reiterated that there has been no change in funding agreements and assured that no positive individual in Nigeria would be denied access to life-saving treatment.
Concerns over U.S. foreign policy shifts and their potential impact.
In recent years, fluctuations in global health funding have occurred, particularly due to policy shifts in the United States. The Trump administration, for instance, initiated a comprehensive review of foreign aid, leading to potential reductions in funding for key health initiatives, including PEPFAR. An executive order issued on January 20th marked the beginning of this reevaluation, which caused uncertainty among recipient nations, including Nigeria. PEPFAR has played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s HIV/AIDS response for years, funding vital treatment and prevention programs.
Any reductions or alterations in managing these funds create significant concerns for the Sustainability of the virus programs. Reports of changes in funding structures and perceived delays have led to widespread fears of potential service disruptions. As the Nigerian healthcare system continues to rely on foreign aid for critical disease management, concerns over long-term sustainability persist. The uncertainty surrounding external funding sources has prompted the federal government to explore alternative funding mechanisms and strengthen domestic healthcare initiatives. Efforts to ensure continuous ART availability remain a top priority for NACA and its partners.
Issued on unverified information was addressed by the director.
Furthermore, the directorial strongly condemned the spread of unverified information, emphasising the potential dangers of such misinformation. Fearmongering narratives create panic and risk deterring individuals from seeking necessary medical care. She urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and rely on trusted sources such as NACA’s official website and verified Social Media channels for accurate updates on the virus treatment policies. Additionally, NACA remains committed to transparency and public engagement to dispel Misinformation and maintain trust within communities. The agency reassured all positive individuals that free treatment will continue without interruption, regardless of rumors suggesting otherwise.
Beyond addressing misinformation, NACA is focused on reinforcing efforts to combat HIV/AIDS and sustain progress in treatment accessibility. Over the years, Nigeria has made notable strides in reducing the prevalence of the virus, thanks to a collaborative approach involving government bodies, non-governmental organisations, and international donors. The agency is actively working to ensure that people living with the disease do not experience any service disruptions. By enhancing partnerships with development agencies and exploring additional funding sources, NACA aims to strengthen the resilience of Nigeria’s healthcare system against external financial fluctuations.
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As part of its long-term strategy, NACA is calling on the public to remain informed and participate in ongoing efforts to eliminate HIV/AIDS in Nigeria. Public awareness campaigns, community engagement, and Education programs are crucial in preventing the spread of misinformation and ensuring people have access to the right resources. Ilori further encouraged media outlets and individuals to verify the authenticity of health-related claims before disseminating them. Responsible communication has been essential in sustaining Nigeria’s progress in HIV prevention and treatment over the years.