COULD HIV BE ON THE RISE DUE TO CUT OFF FUNDING IN AFRICA?

The short answer is yes, but let's know why.

The U.S. plays a crucial role in global HIV response. Initiatives like The President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), launched in 2003, have saved over 26 million lives through funding for prevention and treatment in 55 countries. However, on January 20, 2025, the U.S. Department of State implemented a 90-day pause in foreign assistance, including PEPFAR, to reassess program efficiency. This funding freeze has led to the closure of HIV clinics around Africa, particularly impacting Nigeria, which has received over $6 billion from PEPFAR. 
The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) Executive Director Winnie Byanyima, warned that without U.S. funding, 6.3 million people could die in four years, and 8.9 million may acquire HIV, along with a significant rise in new infections. So, HIV infection will be on the rise if nothing is done to stop it.

What Does This Mean for Young Nigerians?
For young Nigerians, this situation means facing a resurgence of the threats posed by HIV. However, the response will depend on the actions taken by both the youth and relevant stakeholders in this regard. The possible responses include expressing helplessness, seeking alternatives from other governments, non-governmental organizations, and philanthropists, or reprioritizing domestic budgets to fund HIV prevention and treatment programs.

How Many Nigerians Currently Live with HIV?
According to the 2023 Nigeria HIV/AIDS fact sheet, approximately 2,000,000 people live with HIV in the country. Among them, about 1,700,000 (85%) are aware of their status, while the remaining 300,000 (15%) do not know they are infected.

How Many Are Younger Than 30?
Current statistics for Nigerians under 30 living with HIV are limited. However, based on the 2023 Nigeria HIV/AIDS fact sheet, approximately 2,000,000 Nigerians live with HIV. This includes about 160,000 children aged 0-14 and 1,900,000 adults aged 15 and over. With an estimated average HIV prevalence of around 0.4% among young people aged 15-24 and a slightly higher rate of roughly 0.6% for those aged 25-29, we can infer that about 462,000 individuals in the 15-29 age group may be living with HIV. Combined with the statistics for children, this gives an estimated total of at least 622,000 Nigerians under 30 living with HIV.

What Drugs Are Currently Available for Free?
The national guidelines for HIV treatment in Nigeria recommend first-line antiretroviral (ARV) drugs for adults. These include zidovudine (AZT) or tenofovir (TDF) combined with lamivudine (3TC) or emtricitabine (FTC), along with nevirapine (NVP) or efavirenz (EFV). These drugs are still available for free; however, their availability in the future is uncertain. Although the Federal Government approved emergency measures recently, a lasting solution is still being sought.

Practicing Safe Sex is the Best Prevention Against HIV
Given the uncertainty surrounding the availability of HIV medications, it has become increasingly crucial to prevent HIV infections. Practicing safe sex is one essential preventative measure that cannot be overemphasized. Safe sex means using condoms during sexual activities, as they effectively block the transmission of HIV by preventing contact with bodily fluids like semen and vaginal discharge. It’s also important to use condoms correctly, as directed by the manufacturer. Other important considerations include avoiding multiple sexual partners, maintaining effective communication with your partner, and undergoing regular HIV testing.

What to Do If You Feel Sick After Engaging in Risky Sexual Behaviors
If you experience any unusual symptoms or have concerns after engaging in risky sexual behaviors, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor. You can also contact us at https://askthedochq.com. for consultation.

Is Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Still Available for Free?
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is a course of anti-HIV drugs that can prevent infection if taken within 24 hours after exposure. Yes, PEP are available for free at some centers in Nigeria, but its supply is threatened due to the U.S. funding freeze. 

Conclusion
The US cutting of funds to Africa’s health programmes poses a great threat to global public health as the action will lead to rise in HIV infections on the continent. However, this is a wake up call for authorities especially in Nigeria to give priority to healthcare funding in domestic budgets. Also, individuals must also prioritize prevention as the best option to protect themselves from infectious diseases like HIV. 

For more information, please visit the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) here https://naca.gov.ng