The Federal Government has announced plans to adopt homegrown solutions in the fight against HIV/AIDS due to a sharp drop in international funding.
Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Dr Temitope Ilori, made this known at the 7th National Council on AIDS (NCA) held in Lagos on Wednesday.
Ilori said Nigeria is now focusing on sustainability, innovation, and local ownership to protect the health of millions of citizens living with HIV.
“There has been a reduction in international support. It’s time we take full ownership of our HIV response,” she said.
The council, themed “Advancing National HIV Sustainability Agenda in the Changing Global Policy on Aid”, brought together stakeholders from across the country to discuss strategies for continued access to treatment and care.
To address funding gaps, Ilori revealed that President Bola Tinubu approved a $200 million intervention fund and pledged $12 million to the Global Fund.
She also said discussions are ongoing with private sector partners and the National Health Insurance Scheme to provide sustainable support.
Ilori added that Nigeria now has two local companies packaging HIV test kits, and plans are underway to start producing antiretroviral drugs locally.
Other highlights include: integration of HIV programmes into broader health services like maternal care and tuberculosis.
The “Free to Shine” campaign launched by Lagos First Lady, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, targeting the elimination of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B among women and youth.
Plans to empower state and local AIDS agencies with resources and autonomy.
Ilori stressed that Nigeria must strengthen its healthcare system to ensure that people living with HIV do not face disruption in treatment.
“Our goal is an AIDS-free Nigeria. We must act now to reduce our dependence on donors,” she added.
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