In a recent development, the US Centers for Disease Control (USCDC) in Abuja has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s progress towards achieving HIV Epidemic Control. The optimism is rooted in patients’ adherence to Antiretroviral Treatment (ART), hoping to eliminate the epidemic by 2030. Dr. Obinna Ogbanufe, Team Leader of the HIV Care and Treatment Branch at the US CDC, shared this perspective during the ongoing five-day PEEP Curriculum Review and Validation Workshop in Lagos. Dr. Ogbanufe stated the country’s impressive 87% coverage for adults, though he acknowledged a notable gap in the pediatric program.
Addressing the persistent stigma surrounding HIV, he emphasised the need for innovative strategies and tools to reach the remaining 20% of clients in communities. He pointed out that young people and key populations, including men who have sex with men, female sex workers, adolescents and injection drug users, are currently driving the epidemic. However, the groups are utilising peer networks and Virtual Platforms to combat the spread of HIV. He further explained that strides have been made in treatment and prevention, underscoring the role of treatment as a form of prevention.
Education and community efforts will advance HIV control nationwide.
He called for reinforced prevention messages to stop new infections and stressed the importance of identifying and treating the remaining undiagnosed individuals to stop the transmission. A critical aspect of this approach is patient education. Dr. Ogbanufe noted that increased patient Literacy empowers individuals to manage their health responsibly. This Empowerment helps adhere to treatment and plays a crucial role in preventing further virus transmission. By ensuring that patients understand their condition and treatment, the nation moves closer to achieving an HIV-free generation.
Ms. Laide Akanni, Chief Executive Officer of Journalists Against AIDS (JAIDS), recounted the origins of the empowerment program initiated by PEPFAR Nigeria in 2021. Civil Society Organizations recognised a decline in patient Education investment, leading to gaps in treatment adherence and awareness of program benefits. Ms. Akanni emphasised the need for a thorough review of the educational content, advocating for simplified, accessible materials. She proposed various delivery methods to ensure widespread utilisation, including self-paced online courses and media mini-series.
NACA stressed that rights education and collaboration end AIDS.
Dr. Temitope Ilori, Director General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), commended NEPWHAN for their leadership and commitment to benefiting people living with the disease in Nigeria. Dr. Ilori emphasised ongoing challenges such as rights violations, gender-based violence, and stigma, which negatively impact the national response. To address these issues, she stressed the importance of educating community members about their rights, enabling them to recognise and address violations. She reaffirmed NACA’s commitment to partnering with institutions on initiatives that support national and global goals of ending AIDS by 2030.
Mr. Emeka Nwafor, Principal Programme Officer at NACA, delivered Dr. Ilori’s message, emphasising the agency’s dedication to continuous collaboration and improvement in the fight against HIV/AIDS. He stated NACA’s commitment to working with various institutions to enhance the national response to the epidemic. As the country progresses towards achieving disease control, the collaborative efforts of organisations like the US CDC, JAIDS, NEPWHAN, and NACA are essential. Their combined efforts and shared resources are crucial in reaching and sustaining epidemic control, ultimately aiming for an AIDS-free generation by 2030.
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Overall, in addition to these efforts, the country has also implemented various innovative healthcare technologies to improve its detection and management. The use of mobile health applications and telemedicine has enhanced accessibility to care, especially in remote areas. Also, community-based testing initiatives have been instrumental in identifying new cases, particularly among marginalised groups. The integration of its services with other healthcare services, such as maternal and child health programs, has also improved overall health outcomes. Through continuous education, Technology adoption, and community engagement, they set a robust example for other countries striving towards infection epidemic control.