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Nigeria recorded a staggering 1,400 new HIV infections and 50,000 AIDS-related deaths weekly in 2023, according to Dr. Temitope Ilori, Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA). Addressing the Medical and Dental Consultant Association of Nigeria in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Dr. Ilori highlighted the alarming rate of HIV transmission, particularly among children, with 22,000 new infections recorded in the 0-14 age group.

The country contributes significantly to the global HIV burden, accounting for 25% of global mother-to-child transmission. Dr. Ilori emphasized the urgent need to address the epidemic, particularly in pediatric cases, to reduce Nigeria’s role in the global HIV/AIDS crisis.

Despite progress in prevention, treatment, and care, challenges persist in securing sustainable funding and ensuring universal access to HIV services. Dr. Ilori called for increased support from stakeholders to strengthen HIV/AIDS policies, enhance funding mechanisms, and improve the implementation of strategic plans.

Professor Ebunoluwa Adejuyigbe, in a keynote address, stressed the importance of grantsmanship and partnerships in addressing Africa’s disproportionate share of the global disease burden.