In a significant move, the Federal Government of Nigeria has revealed its National HIV/AIDS Strategic Plan for 2023-2027 (NSP 2023-2027) and the Sustainability and Country Ownership HIV Response. Sen. George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, made this announcement during the 2023 World AIDS Day (WAD) ceremony in Abuja on Friday, December 2, 2023.
Highlighting the government’s dedication to eradicating the AIDS epidemic by 2030, Akume expressed, “The key strategy for sustainability and country ownership of HIV launched today indicates a pivotal commitment towards ending AIDS by 2030 and beyond, with states providing leadership.”
During the ceremony, Akume, represented by Chief of Staff Chris Tarkar, unveiled the national strategic framework for 2023 to 2027, symbolizing a new business model for a sustainable HIV response in Nigeria. He urged state governments to actively engage in this agenda for the sustainable ownership of HIV response in the country.
Crucially, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) collaborated with the Nigerian Business Coalition Against AIDS (NiBUCAA) to introduce a N62 billion private sector-driven HIV/AIDS Trust Fund of Nigeria. Akume urged the private sector to fulfill its pledge to support the government’s efforts in achieving an HIV-free generation.
The NSP 2023-2027 Blueprint
Dr. Gambo Aliyu, Director General of NACA, emphasized the participatory and consultative process that shaped the NSP 2023-2027, aiming to strengthen the HIV response for ending AIDS by 2030. The strategy prioritizes equitable access to HIV services, breaking down barriers, and integrating efficient responses into relevant systems.
As part of the sustainability initiative, a N62 billion private sector-driven HIV/AIDS Trust Fund was launched, underlining collaboration between the government and the private sector. Dr. Abdulikadir Ibrahim of the Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria (NEPWHAN) urged the government to take ownership by allocating more resources and locally manufacturing Antiretroviral (ARV) drugs.
