Nigeria Sets 2030 Goal to Eliminate HIV/AIDS as Public Health Threat
The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its dedication to eradicating HIV/AIDS as a significant public health concern by the year 2030. This ambitious target will be pursued by enhancing domestic funding mechanisms, broadening prevention, treatment, and care services, and ensuring the complete elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV across the nation.
Rollout of Lenacapavir for HIV Prevention
To accelerate progress, the government has initiated the deployment of long-acting injectable Lenacapavir, known as LEN PrEP, for HIV prevention, starting today in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Approximately 52,000 doses of this innovative drug have been secured to facilitate its integration into Nigeria's national strategy for HIV prevention and control.
The rollout will extend to multiple states, including Anambra, Ebonyi, Gombe, Kwara, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Benue, and the FCT, as part of a phased implementation plan. Dr. Adekunle Salako, the Minister of State for Health, emphasized during a press briefing in Abuja that Nigeria has already made substantial strides in reducing new HIV infections through scaled-up prevention programs.
He highlighted that the introduction of Lenacapavir is expected to further accelerate the decline in new infections and expand prevention coverage among populations at high risk. Dr. Aderonke Agbaje, Director of Special Projects at the Institute of Human Virology of Nigeria (IHVN), described the launch as a pivotal milestone, noting that it diversifies prevention options for individuals vulnerable to HIV infection.
EU Announces €288 Million Support Package
In a related development, the European Union has unveiled a €288 million support package for Nigeria, focusing on key sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, finance, migration, climate, and digital public infrastructure. This funding was announced at the EU-Nigeria Ministerial News Conference in Abuja, reflecting a renewed commitment under the EU-Nigeria partnership.
The initiative aligns with the EU's Global Gateway Strategy, which aims to boost investment and strengthen economic cooperation with Nigeria. Stefano Signore, Director General for International Partnerships at the European Commission, stated that this investment underscores the EU's increased focus on Nigeria's development, with healthcare and agriculture prioritized for infrastructure improvements, local manufacturing, and inclusion efforts.
He added that the EU is enhancing cooperation on migration by supporting better opportunities for returnee migrants. Abubakar Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, noted that this development builds on the 2023 EU-Nigeria Strategic Dialogue, which has deepened bilateral relations and launched the Global Gateway Strategy in Nigeria.
Olasupo Olusi, Managing Director of the Bank of Industry, confirmed that the partnership will direct long-term financing into critical sectors like healthcare and agriculture, further supporting Nigeria's health goals.
