The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved N4.8 billion for the procurement of 150,000 HIV treatment packs, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to sustaining care for people living with the virus.
This decision, announced after the FEC meeting on Monday, comes as the country faces potential funding challenges due to recent shifts in US policies affecting the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), a key source of HIV treatment funding in Nigeria.
Speaking on the approval, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, emphasized the need for sustainable domestic investment in HIV treatment as global aid dynamics evolve.
“This is an important signal that the federal government is committed to ensuring life-saving treatments remain accessible, despite uncertainties in external support,” Pate said.
For over two decades, Nigeria’s fight against HIV/AIDS has relied heavily on international donors, particularly PEPFAR, which provides treatment for millions globally. However, US foreign aid policies have fluctuated, raising concerns about long-term funding stability.
PEPFAR operations faced a temporary suspension following an executive order by former US President Donald Trump, which halted numerous overseas assistance programs. While a recent “emergency humanitarian waiver” issued by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has allowed PEPFAR to resume operations in 55 countries, including Nigeria, uncertainties remain.
In response, the Nigerian government is developing a transition and sustainability plan to reduce dependence on foreign aid and ensure uninterrupted HIV treatment.
Pate disclosed that the FEC has established a high-level committee comprising the Ministries of Finance, Health, Defense, and Environment, along with the Governors’ Forum, to formulate a long-term strategy for sustaining critical health programs.
“With the US government conducting a 90-day review of its development assistance policies, we are proactively planning to ensure Nigerians receiving treatment do not face disruptions,” Pate stated.
While acknowledging the US’s significant contributions over the past 20 years, Pate stressed that Nigeria, under President Bola Tinubu, is prioritizing the development of a robust health sector through national systems and increased domestic funding.
“Our goal is to build a self-sustaining healthcare system where no patient currently receiving treatment is left without care,” he added.
The FEC’s approval of N4.8 billion for HIV treatment marks a crucial step in Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen health financing and reduce vulnerability to external policy changes.