Morenikeji Adebayo
Nigeria has seen a concerning rise in HIV cases over the past decade, with more than 2.9 million reported infections between 2014 and 2024.
The data highlights the persistent challenge the country faces in combating the epidemic, despite ongoing public health efforts.
According to official reports, the number of HIV cases steadily increased over the years, starting with 167,257 cases in 2014.
This was followed by 197,466 cases in 2015, a jump to 227,025 in 2016, and a further rise to 236,406 in 2017.
In 2018, the figure slightly declined to 214,217 cases, but the upward trend resumed in 2019, with 271,428 reported cases.
However, the most significant surge came in 2020, when the number of HIV cases surged dramatically to 467,129, marking the highest figure for the decade.
In 2021, the number remained high at 452,465, although it showed a slight reduction from the previous year.
In subsequent years, the figures showed a more promising trend, with a significant decrease in 2022, where 326,422 cases were reported.
This downward trajectory continued in 2023, with 230,761 cases recorded, and in 2024, the cases further declined to 127,086, signaling a positive shift in the country’s fight against HIV.
Despite the recent decline, health experts stress the need for continued vigilance and enhanced prevention programs to reduce the transmission rate of the virus.
There remains a significant gap in testing, treatment, and awareness, which contributes to the spread of HIV.
The Nigerian government and international health organizations have been working to combat the virus, but the persistent numbers suggest that more comprehensive measures are required to address the underlying factors contributing to the spread of HIV in the country.
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