HIV/AIDS drugs remains free – NACA says

The Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Dr Temitope Ilori, has on March 9, 2025, says that HIV/AIDS treatment remains free.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Dr Ilori, denied the false social media claims about AntiRetroviral (ARV) drugs subsidy withdrawal.

Ilori noted that the claim that ARV drugs will now cost N250,000 per dose with patients required to pay N500,000 monthly, is completely false and misleading.

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

“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,” she said.

Ilori reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to ensuring uninterrupted access to HIV treatment.

She said that the collaboration with donors, is to provide free HIV treatment to those in need.

Ilori urged the public to disregard the misinformation and avoid unnecessary panic, adding that NACA’s priority is to sustain the progress made in controlling HIV/AIDS in Nigeria.

The Director-General, also cautions against spreading unverified information causing unnecessary fear and hindering progress.

“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 added.

She encouraged the public to visit the official website of the agency or follow their verified social media platforms for up-to-date information on HIV treatment and prevention.

Fact about NACA

The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) is Nigeria’s primary body responsible for coordinating the national response to HIV/AIDS.

The agency said it was established in the year 2000, with it’s primary objective to reduce HIV-related morbidity and mortality through planning and implementation.

It is claimed that NACA’s efforts are guided by the National HIV and AIDS Strategic Framework (2021-2025), which outlines the country’s plan to combat HIV/AIDS.

Furthermore, the agency collaborates with various stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, and international partners, to achieve its goals.

In conclusion, NACA plays a critical role in Nigeria’s fight against HIV/AIDS, and its efforts have contributed significantly to the country’s progress in controlling the epidemic.

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