HIV/AIDS: Nigeria Aims to Achieve Epidemic Control by 2030 – FG

The National Coordinator of the National HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, and STI Control Programme at the Ministry of Health, Adebobola Bashorun, announced on Tuesday that Nigeria is targeting epidemic control of HIV/AIDS by 2030. According to the 2019 Nigeria National HIV/AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey, there are currently approximately 1.9 million Nigerians living with the virus.

Bashorun emphasized the importance of self-tests and urged everyone to know their HIV status. He highlighted that HIV self-testing kits can facilitate the swift identification of an individual’s HIV status. The kits function similarly to pregnancy kits, providing results indicating whether the test is positive or negative. They enable individuals to promptly assess their health status and connect with necessary care.

Speaking at the unveiling of the results of a pilot scheme conducted in Lagos and Abuja by the Society for Family Health, Bashorun explained that the self-testing kits do not require a healthcare facility, and their affordability and subsidization make them accessible to a wide range of people. The program serves as a feasibility study to explore the utilization of these kits in Nigeria and the potential for expanding their availability.

Over the past 30 years, the government has made significant efforts to increase treatment coverage for HIV/AIDS. Bashorun mentioned that Nigeria has expanded treatment options and promoted condom use as a preventive measure. The government has also prioritized raising awareness about HIV/AIDS. By 2030, the aim is for Nigeria to move closer to achieving epidemic control.

Dr. Omokhudu Idogho, the Managing Director of the Society for Family Health, stated in his welcome address that a comprehensive roadmap for private sector investment testing has been developed in collaboration with the government. This roadmap will facilitate increased private-sector involvement, improving access to integrated HIV services nationwide and promoting engagement with relevant stakeholders. Through community mobilization efforts, the Society for Family Health has successfully reached over 50,000 individuals, raising awareness and fostering engagement.

By implementing strategies such as HIV self-testing kits, expanding treatment coverage, and enhancing public-private partnerships, Nigeria is working towards controlling the HIV/AIDS epidemic and ensuring better healthcare outcomes for its population.