By Bianca Iboma-Emefu
Nigerian Business Coalition Against AIDS (NIBUCAA), in collaboration with Access Holdings, recently conducted HIV testing for more than 1000 participants during the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon 2025.
This event took place at Eko Atlantic City, Lagos, the finish line of the race. It also served as a platform to sensitise over 3,000 individuals on HIV prevention and distribute over 2,000 essential Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials, with packs of condoms.
On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump of USA issued an Executive Order pausing foreign aid funding for 90 days: “This pause directly affects the US Government-funded President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which provides roughly 70 per cent of the total US$500 million per annum required for Nigeria’s HIV response and currently supports over 1.5 million HIV-positive Nigerians on treatment.”
Member, Access Holdings Sustainability Team, Esther Graham, said: “It has never been more important to have programs and collaborations like this, and Access Holdings is proud to be a part of this initiative.
“With Nigeria having one of the highest HIV/AIDS burdens in Sub-Saharan Africa, it is vital that we take decisive actions to create awareness and give access to free HIV/AIDS testing services. Strategic private partnerships are more important than ever in the Nigerian HIV/AIDS response.”
Graham noted the largest HIV populations in the world, the reality is that our current reliance on international donor funding may not be sustainable in the long term. We need to mobilize local resources, expertise, and innovation to strengthen our response to HIV/AIDS.”
She emphasized the significance of fostering partnerships between the private sector, non-governmental organizations, and government agencies. “By working together, we can create comprehensive solutions that not only focus on treatment and care but also on prevention, education, and support services. It is vital to build a robust framework that empowers communities and reduces the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS.”
She also noted that increased collaboration could lead to improved funding mechanisms and more efficient allocation of resources. “The private sector has a unique capacity to bring investment, technology, and strategic management practices to the table. By leveraging these assets alongside public health strategies, we can enhance the overall efficacy of our response.”
As Nigeria navigates through potential shifts in international funding landscapes and policy frameworks, Graham’s insights highlight the urgent need for a united front in combating HIV/AIDS, ensuring that Nigeria can effectively address one of its most pressing public health challenges.
“The engagement of a diverse set of stakeholders is crucial for developing sustainable systems that can withstand future uncertainties and continue to provide care and support for those affected by HIV/AIDS.”
Member, African HIV Control Working Group and former CEO of NIBUCAA and HTFN,
Dr. Jekwu Ozoemene, remarked, “The Nigerian government urgently needs to prepare an emergency plan to ensure that the 1.9 million HIV-positive Nigerians have secure access to treatment, monitoring, and support in the event that external funding for HIV is halted or curtailed.”
“We need to strengthen our health and community systems to effectively integrate HIV services, in particular, into Primary Health Care (PHC) frameworks. This integration is essential not only for HIV management but also for addressing other health issues comprehensively.
“Strengthening local health systems will empower communities to take charge of their healthcare needs, ensuring that those living with HIV receive the necessary support and treatment without disruption. Moreover training healthcare providers and mobilizing community resources will be critical in maintaining service continuity, even in the face of funding uncertainties. By prioritizing these initiatives now, the Nigerian government can safeguard the health and well-being of millions and move towards sustainable health outcomes for
