The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has urged Nigerians to take advantage of the free HIV testing, counselling and treatment available at primary healthcare centres across the nation (PHCs).
Executive director of NPHCDA, Dr. Muyi Aina emphasised the importance of early detection and treatment in reducing HIV-related illnesses and deaths during an interview with journalists in Abuja on Friday.
“Get tested, get treated, and stay healthy. Our primary healthcare centres provide confidential and free HIV services, including testing and counselling,” Aino stated. “We encourage everyone to visit their nearest PHC and take control of their health.”
He reassured Nigerians of NPHCDA’s commitment to accessible and stigma-free healthcare, stressing that early detection not only saves lives but also prevents the further spread of the virus within communities.
Aina noted that the NPHCDA is working to ensure the availability of HIV services in all PHCs, particularly in hard-to-reach areas. “Taking charge of your health starts with knowing your HIV status. Visit your nearest PHC today – these services are free and confidential,” he reiterated.
This initiative aligns with global efforts to end the HIV epidemic by 2030. Aino continues to advocate for greater awareness and utilisation of PHC services, urging Nigerians to prioritize their health by seeking timely medical care.
As of 2023, Nigeria has made significant progress in addressing the HIV epidemic. The estimated HIV prevalence among adults aged 15 to 49 is approximately 1.3 per cent, with about 1.9 million people living with HIV (PLHIV) in the country.
In recent years, Nigeria has intensified efforts to identify and treat individuals living with HIV. Between April 2022 and March 2023, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in collaboration with Nigerian health authorities, provided HIV testing services to nearly 6.2 million people. Out of these, 149,244 individuals tested positive for HIV, and 145,685 were promptly linked to antiretroviral therapy (ART).
The country has also focused on preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV. During the same period, over 1.1 million pregnant women were tested for HIV at antenatal clinics. Among those diagnosed with HIV, 21,267 received ART to reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to their infants.
These concerted efforts have led to a substantial increase in the number of PLHIV receiving ART. As of March 2023, nearly 2 million individuals were on ART, with the CDC supporting approximately 1.2 million of these patients. Notably, 16 out of the 18 states and the Federal Capital Territory supported by the CDC have achieved treatment saturation, defined as at least 81 per cent ART coverage.
Despite these advancements, challenges remain. In 2021, Nigeria reported 74,000 new HIV infections and 51,000 AIDS-related deaths. However, the country has made significant strides in providing treatment, with 1.7 million people on ART by the end of 2021.
In summary, Nigeria continues to make notable progress in combating HIV/AIDS through expanded testing, treatment, and prevention initiatives. Ongoing efforts are essential to further reduce new infections and improve health outcomes for those living with HIV.
