HIV Treatment Remains Free In Government Facilities – NACA DG

The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has refuted claims circulating on social media suggesting that subsidies for Antiretroviral therapy (ART) have been discontinued.

The Director-General of NACA, Temitope Ilori, responded through a statement issued on Sunday, March 9, in Abuja.

Ms Ilori clarified that the assertion that ART will now be priced at N250,000 per dose, requiring patients to spend N500,000 monthly, is inaccurate and deceptive.

“We want to categorically state that HIV treatment in Nigeria remains free of charge at government-approved health facilities,” she emphasized.

“We give thanks to donor agencies, including the US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the Global Fund, and other development partners for their continued support.

“There has been no withdrawal of funding or support from the US Government, USAID, or the World Health Organisation (WHO) regarding HIV treatment in Nigeria.”

Ms Ilori restated the agency’s dedication to guaranteeing uninterrupted access to HIV treatment.

She noted that the partnership with donor organizations continues to be unwavering in delivering free and reachable HIV treatment to everyone requiring it.

She called on the public to dismiss the false reports and refrain from unnecessary alarm, stressing that NACA’s focus is to maintain the advancements achieved in managing HIV/AIDS in Nigeria.

The Director-General also warned against the dissemination of unconfirmed details, noting that it could spark unwarranted anxiety and obstruct efforts to address HIV/AIDS.

“We encourage Nigerians to rely on verified sources for health-related information.

NACA remains committed to ensuring that no person living with HIV is denied access to life-saving treatment due to misinformation or fear,” she affirmed.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli