Lagos Lead as Nigeria Records Over 20,000 New HIV Cases

Lagos Lead as Nigeria Records Over 20,000 New HIV Cases
Kaduna recorded 842 cases, while Kano reported 476
Most Revd Benebo Fubara, warned that the HIV response is facing challenges such as declining funding

Nigeria recorded 20,838 new HIV infections between January and March 2026, with Lagos and Benue emerging as the most affected areas, according to figures from the National Data Repository.

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Eko Hot Blog reports that Lagos recorded the highest number with 2,298 cases, followed by Benue with 1,949. Other states with significant figures include Akwa Ibom (1,159), Rivers (1,137), and Anambra (1,013).

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In the northern region, Kaduna recorded 842 cases, while Kano reported 476. The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) logged 579 cases, while states like Delta, Oyo, Ogun, Plateau, Imo, and Nasarawa also recorded notable numbers.

Smaller figures were reported in states such as Ekiti (129), Sokoto (110), and Yobe, which recorded the lowest with 100 cases.

Amid the rising figures, religious leaders and stakeholders in the HIV response have called for stronger integration of HIV services within primary healthcare systems and improved access to innovations, including long-acting injectable prevention methods.

The Federal Government has also announced a $346 million co-financing commitment for 2026 to strengthen HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria interventions.

Lagos Lead as Nigeria Records Over 20,000 New HIV Cases

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate, disclosed this during the rollout of Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable used for HIV prevention.

He noted that the funding will support key areas such as medical supplies, laboratory surveillance, reagents, expansion of primary healthcare, and financial protection for citizens.

Stakeholders in the HIV response, including religious and community leaders, have also urged efforts to reduce stigma and promote inclusive access to care.

The Church Council of Nigeria, represented by its immediate past president, Most Revd Benebo Fubara, warned that the HIV response is facing challenges such as declining funding, stigma, and gaps in the health system.

Meanwhile, the National Chief Imam of Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society, Fuad Adeyemi, called for greater acceptance of people living with HIV, noting that modern treatments can help manage the condition effectively.

Representatives of women living with HIV also stressed the need for collective action to eliminate stigma and ensure that treatment and prevention services are accessible to all.