Experts have called for stronger community engagement and a conducive environment for HIV/AIDS patients to access treatment, warning that recent funding cuts could worsen the epidemic in Ondo State.
The Chairman of the Ondo State Hospitals’ Management Board (HMB), Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, made this appeal during a courtesy visit to the Ondo State Agency for the Control of AIDS (ODSACA) in Akure on Tuesday. Accompanied by other board members, including Nurse Arinola Adamolekun, Dr. Rotimi Wilson, and Pharmacist Taiwo Adefurin, Fasoranti stressed that active engagement with key populations and ensuring seamless access to treatment would curb HIV transmission rates.
His concerns were heightened by the impact of U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent suspension of funding for the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). He described the program as a crucial intervention that has significantly reduced HIV transmission in Nigeria.
“The suspension of PEPFAR funding is a major setback. If alternative measures are not put in place, we risk an upsurge in new HIV cases,” Dr. Fasoranti warned. He urged the Federal Government to act swiftly in preventing the emergence of new HIV strains in the country.
He also called on authorities to eliminate bureaucratic hurdles that delay treatment access, emphasizing that every moment counts in managing the epidemic.
Over 28,000 People Living with HIV in Ondo State
In response, Dr. Dayo Adegbulu, Director of ODSACA, revealed the alarming statistics of HIV prevalence in the state, noting that over 21,000 HIV patients are currently receiving treatment, while 28,343 people live with the virus in Ondo State alone.
“There is a major crisis at hand. Both federal and state governments must prioritize healthcare funding to sustain these treatment programs,” Dr. Adegbulu stated.
He warned that the withdrawal of international partners from HIV intervention programs would significantly threaten Nigeria’s healthcare system.
“If these partners pull out completely, the consequences will be devastating. We must remember that around 1.5 million Nigerians depend on HIV medications, all of which are imported,” he explained.
Dr. Adegbulu also emphasized the need for inclusive treatment strategies, highlighting key populations such as transgender individuals, incarcerated persons, and pregnant women.
“Many HIV-positive elites in Ondo State seek treatment in other regions due to logistical challenges. We must improve local healthcare delivery to ensure these medications remain accessible within the state,” he added.
Call for Regional Collaboration
As the crisis looms, Dr. Adegbulu called for a collaborative effort among Southern state governors to retain HIV patients within the region and sustain uninterrupted treatment.
“Patients cannot afford to wait due to out-of-stock situations since these medications are not available over the counter. A strategic collaboration is necessary to prevent lapses in treatment,” he urged.
Funding Suspension Sends Shockwaves
The recent suspension of PEPFAR funding by U.S. President Donald Trump has raised global concerns about the future of HIV/AIDS programs. Since its inception in 2003, PEPFAR has invested over $85 billion in the fight against HIV/AIDS, saving more than 17 million lives across 54 countries.
Nigeria alone has benefited from over $6 billion in U.S. aid, significantly boosting the nation’s HIV/AIDS response. However, with recent funding cuts, stakeholders fear a decline in progress.
“The impact of PEPFAR funding cannot be overstated. We must find alternative funding sources to ensure that we do not lose the gains we have made over the years,” Dr. Fasoranti concluded.
As Nigeria faces this growing challenge, health experts and government officials must work together to sustain HIV/AIDS interventions, ensuring that no patient is left without critical treatment.
