Nigeria Assures Continued HIV Treatment Access Despite U.S. Funding Freeze

Amid concerns over the suspension of U.S. government funding, Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to uninterrupted HIV treatment and prevention services nationwide.

In a statement released by Dr. Adebobola Bashorun, National Coordinator of the National AIDS, Viral Hepatitis and STIs Control Program (NASCP) under the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the government confirmed that adequate stocks of antiretroviral (ARV) medications remain available across all designated Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) sites.

“NASCP reaffirms to care recipients that there are sufficient stocks of antiretroviral medication for both prevention and treatment in all ART sites nationwide,” Bashorun stated.

To maintain momentum in the national HIV response, NASCP and its key implementing partners have mapped out a strategic framework focused on the triple elimination of hepatitis B, syphilis, and HIV, particularly mother-to-child transmission. This approach aligns with the Free to Shine Triple Elimination Campaign led by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, which targets women of reproductive age and ensures care for affected children.

Looking ahead, the agency has also completed a comprehensive HIV commodities quantification exercise for the 2025–2029 period. This quantification serves as proof of the government’s dedication to ensuring commodity security for both the National Treatment and Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) programs.

Bashorun noted that NASCP conducted Family Index Testing (FIT) data validation across 15 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). These efforts aim to strengthen HIV data systems, improve data accuracy, and ensure that people living with HIV (PLHIV) receive consistent, high-quality care and services.

The national program also recently completed estimates for the HIV response, which will help streamline implementation and support evidence-based decision-making.

“Annual national-level performance assessments have been conducted,” Bashorun added, “to ensure continuous monitoring, program improvement, and to address data quality concerns.”

Despite uncertainties in international funding, Nigeria appears committed to delivering on its public health promises. With strong domestic systems, local planning, and targeted campaigns like Free to Shine, the country is doubling down on its goal to end mother-to-child transmission of HIV, hepatitis B, and syphilis by 2030, ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against HIV/AIDS.