NACA: Disregard fake news, HIV treatment in Nigeria remains free

The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has debunked false claims circulating on social media regarding the withdrawal of subsidies for Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) in Nigeria.

The Director-General of NACA, Dr. Temitope Ilori, clarified in a statement issued on Sunday, March 9, 2025, that HIV treatment remains free of charge at government-approved health facilities across the country.

She described the viral claims that ART would now cost N250,000 per dose, with patients required to pay N500,000 monthly, as false and misleading.

Dr. Ilori emphasized that the agency, in collaboration with donor partners such as the US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the Global Fund, and the World Health Organization (WHO), remains committed to providing uninterrupted access to free HIV treatment.

She expressed gratitude to these partners for their continued support, noting that there has been no withdrawal of funding or assistance from the US government, USAID, or WHO.

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

She also cautioned against the spread of unverified information, which she said could cause fear and hinder efforts to combat the disease.

Dr. Ilori encouraged Nigerians to rely on verified sources for health-related information and to visit NACA’s official website or follow its verified social media platforms for accurate updates.

She reaffirmed NACA’s commitment to ensuring that no person living with HIV is denied access to life-saving treatment due to misinformation or fear.

This statement comes amid concerns over the potential impact of false information on public health efforts, particularly in a country where millions rely on free HIV treatment to manage the disease.

Background:

Nigeria has made significant progress in combating HIV/AIDS over the years, largely due to the support of international donor agencies and the government’s commitment to providing free treatment.

However, the country still faces challenges in ensuring universal access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas.

The false claims about the withdrawal of ART subsidies had threatened to undermine public trust in the healthcare system and disrupt the progress achieved in HIV/AIDS control.

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