Rivers State has been reported as the leading region for HIV cases in Nigeria, with 208,767 individuals living with the virus. Benue follows closely behind with 202,346 reported cases, and Akwa Ibom comes in third with 161,597 cases.
According to a recent report from the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Lagos State, Nigeria’s commercial hub, recorded 108,649 cases, placing it fourth on the list. Anambra also shows a significant number with 100,429 cases, followed by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), which has 83,333 cases.
The report reveals a troubling trend with over two million people currently living with HIV in Nigeria. This underscores the urgent need for expanded efforts in HIV prevention, testing, and treatment access across the country.
“The challenge remains multifaceted, particularly with HIV drugs available but not universally accessed by those in need,” said NACA’s Director General, Temitope Ilori. Access to treatment has seen some progress, with 1.7 million people on Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) as of the latest data.
Other states like Delta, Imo, and Enugu also show considerable numbers, with Delta reporting 68,170 cases and Imo 67,944. These regions, along with Akwa Ibom and Benue, represent some of the highest prevalence areas for HIV in the country.
The report also reveals a disturbing rise in HIV-related deaths, with an estimated 43,683 deaths last year alone. This includes both adults and children, pointing to a need for enhanced care and intervention programs.
While access to ART has improved, a critical gap remains in efforts to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Of the 93,186 pregnant women identified as needing ART, only 31,095 received the necessary treatment.
The state’s health commissioners believe the increasing number of cases can be attributed to expanded testing efforts. Anambra’s Health Commissioner, Afam Obidike, explained that more people are now aware of their HIV status and are receiving treatment.
These growing numbers serve as a call for urgent action to combat HIV in Nigeria, especially with the added challenges of stigma and limited access to healthcare in some regions.
Article updated 1 month ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
