Nigeria’s Federal Executive Council has approved a N4.8 billion fund to procure 150,000 HIV treatment packs, ensuring continuous care for individuals living with the virus, SAVANNAH NEWSNOW REPORTS.
The approval reflects the government’s commitment to boosting domestic funding for HIV care amid concerns over shifting international aid dynamics, following the FEC meeting on Monday.
The decision is critical as Nigeria faces the potential impact of recent policy changes to PEPFAR, a crucial source of HIV funding.
According to Mr Pate, while global partners have provided vital treatment support, the federal government is now taking deliberate steps to invest in life-saving interventions for PLHIV in Nigeria.
“This is an important signal that the federal government is committed to ensuring that life-saving treatments remain accessible, despite the changing dynamics in external support,” Mr Pate said.
Nigeria’s efforts to combat HIV/AIDS have received substantial support from international donors, especially PEPFAR, which has provided billions of dollars in funding over the past twenty years.
Despite facing a temporary funding suspension due to President Donald Trump’s executive order on foreign aid, PEPFAR has resumed operations in 55 countries, including Nigeria, after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio granted an emergency humanitarian waiver.
In response to funding uncertainties, the Nigerian government is proactively developing a transition and sustainability plan to address potential funding shortfalls.
Mr Pate disclosed that the FEC discussed the implications of US policy changes on health programmes, particularly those addressing HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria.
“In light of the US government’s ongoing 90-day review of its development assistance policies, we have set up a committee comprising the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Environment, and the Governors’ Forum to develop a transition and sustainability plan,” he said.
“This is to ensure that Nigerians receiving treatment do not face disruptions.”
