Nigeria’s healthcare sector has received a major boost after the Federal Government announced a fresh funding commitment.
The move is expected to reshape the fight against HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria. A total of $346 million has been approved for co-financing health programmes in 2026.
The announcement was made in Abuja during the launch of Lenacapavir, a new injectable drug for HIV prevention. The event attracted key health officials and stakeholders.
According to the Coordinating Minister of Health, Muhammad Ali Pate, the funding will be included in the 2026 national budget. He explained that the resources will support critical healthcare areas.
These include medical supplies, laboratory services, and expanded primary healthcare. In addition, financial protection for citizens will be improved.
Pate also outlined the government’s long-term vision. He noted that Nigeria aims to rely more on local funding by 2030. Therefore, dependence on foreign aid is expected to reduce gradually.
Meanwhile, encouraging progress has already been recorded in HIV treatment and awareness. The Minister of State for Health, Iziaq Salako, shared updated figures.
He revealed that 93% of people living with HIV know their status. Furthermore, 99% of diagnosed individuals are receiving treatment.
In addition, 95% of those on treatment have achieved viral suppression. This shows significant progress in managing the disease.
Efforts to prevent mother-to-child transmission have also improved. The rate increased from 33% in 2023 to nearly 70% in 2025.
The introduction of Lenacapavir has been described as a major breakthrough. It offers a simpler prevention option for people at high risk.
The drug is administered twice a year, unlike daily pills. As a result, adherence to prevention methods may improve.
However, health officials noted that pregnant women are not yet eligible. This is due to limited safety data currently available.
The rollout has already started in several states across the country. These include Anambra, Ebonyi, Gombe, Kwara, and Akwa Ibom.
Others are Cross River, Benue, and the Federal Capital Territory. Meanwhile, expansion to more regions is expected in the coming months.
Furthermore, the initiative has been supported by multiple stakeholders. It was designed to improve healthcare delivery and access.
