FEC Approves N4.8bn for HIV Treatment Amid U.S. Aid Uncertainty

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved N4.8 billion for the procurement of 150,000 HIV treatment packs, ensuring continued care for Nigerians living with the virus.

The approval, announced after Monday’s FEC meeting, is part of the federal government’s efforts to strengthen domestic funding for HIV treatment, particularly in light of potential disruptions in U.S. aid through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).

Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to sustaining HIV treatment efforts, especially as global funding dynamics shift.

“This is an important signal that the federal government remains committed to ensuring that life-saving treatments remain accessible despite external funding uncertainties,” Pate said.

While international partners have played a crucial role in Nigeria’s HIV response, the government is now prioritizing domestic investments to safeguard ongoing treatment programs.

For years, PEPFAR has been a major funding source for Nigeria’s HIV/AIDS programs, providing billions of dollars in treatment support.

However, a temporary funding suspension under former U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive order raised concerns over the future of HIV interventions in Nigeria.

Although U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently granted an emergency humanitarian waiver allowing PEPFAR to resume operations in 55 countries, the Nigerian government is working to reduce reliance on foreign aid.

Mr. Pate revealed that FEC has set up a high-level committee to develop a transition and sustainability plan for key health programs, including those tackling HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria.

The committee, comprising the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Environment, and the Governors’ Forum, will assess the implications of U.S. policy shifts and devise strategies to maintain uninterrupted treatment.

“Our goal is to ensure that no Nigerian currently receiving treatment is left without care,” Pate assured.

As the government navigates changing international health funding landscapes, the latest N4.8 billion investment signals a move towards self-sufficiency in managing Nigeria’s HIV response.

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