The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has called on the federal government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to invest in the local production of drugs to tackle HIV/AIDS in Nigeria.
The move, ACPN says, is crucial to reduce reliance on foreign donors for HIV prevention and treatment programmes.
ACPN National Chairman, Pharmacist Ambrose Ezeh, made the appeal in a statement issued to mark World HIV/AIDS Day, which was made available to Newsmen.
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Ezeh highlighted the urgency, noting that Nigeria recorded an estimated 1,400 new HIV infections in 2023 alone. He added that recent funding cuts from the United States Government underscore the need for stronger local commitment.
“The recent cut in funding support from the United States Government should awaken the Federal Government to take decisive action.
“The HIV response has historically been characterised by resilience, rising above challenges through innovation, partnerships, and persistent advocacy,” Ezeh said.
The ACPN chairman urged the government to invest in local manufacturing of antiretroviral drugs, diagnostic kits, and consumables.
According to him, this will ensure sustainability, reduce external dependency, and safeguard uninterrupted service delivery for HIV/AIDS patients across Nigeria.
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Nigeria continues to face a significant HIV/AIDS challenge, with over 2 million people living with the virus in 2024. Of these, about 1.6 million are currently receiving treatment, highlighting the importance of sustained access to care.
The adult HIV prevalence (ages 15–64) stands at approximately 1.4%. In 2023 alone, the country recorded an estimated 1,400 to 75,000 new HIV infections and around 45,000 HIV-related deaths, reflecting both the persistent burden and the urgent need for effective interventions.
Historically, Nigeria has relied heavily on external funding, particularly from the United States and international donors, to provide antiretroviral therapy (ARVs) and support prevention programs.
Recent reductions in donor support have exposed vulnerabilities in the healthcare system, emphasizing the need for sustainable local production of HIV/AIDS drugs.
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Producing antiretrovirals, diagnostic kits, and consumables locally can ensure continuous supply, lower costs, and improved access, particularly for rural and underserved communities, while strengthening Nigeria’s overall public health response.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
