FEC Approves N4.8bn for HIV Treatment Amid US Policy Shift

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a N4.8 billion fund to procure 150,000 HIV treatment packs as part of Nigeria’s effort to ensure continuous care for individuals living with the virus.

This decision comes in the wake of U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive order, which temporarily suspended funding to a donor organization that provides AIDS Relief in Nigeria.

The move is seen as part of the Nigerian government’s plan to strengthen domestic funding for HIV treatment, especially as concerns rise over the potential impact of recent U.S. policy changes on the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).

PEPFAR has been a major source of HIV funding in Nigeria, and the suspension of funding has led to fears about the future of HIV treatment programs.

Speaking on the approval, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, emphasized the importance of sustaining HIV treatment efforts amidst changing international aid dynamics.

He pointed out that while global partners have been instrumental in providing support, the federal government is now taking proactive measures to ensure continued access to life-saving interventions for people living with HIV in Nigeria.

“This is an important signal that the federal government is committed to ensuring that life-saving treatments remain accessible, despite the changing dynamics in external support,” Mr Pate said.

Nigeria’s fight against HIV/AIDS has greatly benefited from international support, especially from the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which has provided billions of dollars in funding over the last two decades.

PEPFAR, which serves over 20.6 million people worldwide, faced a temporary funding suspension following President Donald Trump’s executive order on foreign aid, which halted several overseas assistance programs and put millions of people at risk.

However, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently granted an “emergency humanitarian waiver,” allowing PEPFAR to continue its operations in 55 countries, including Nigeria. This waiver has been vital in ensuring the continuity of HIV treatment efforts.

In light of these challenges, Mr. Pate, reassured stakeholders that the government is actively working on a transition and sustainability plan to mitigate any potential funding shortfalls.