Lagos: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) have called for the local production of HIV/AIDS kits and medications to address the funding shortfall in the fight against the disease.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the call was made during the opening ceremony of a three-day stakeholder engagement on the Review and Implementation of Anti-Discrimination Programmes under the HIV and AIDS Anti-Discrimination Act of 2014. The event, which drew dignitaries from across Nigeria, was held at MSquare Whitehouse Hotel, 23A Toyin Street, Ikeja, in Lagos.
Both agencies raised concerns following the withdrawal of funding by the United States Government to the United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), the global body coordinating efforts against HIV/AIDS. Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Dr Tony Ojukwu, emphasised the need for improved research and development in the local production of antiretroviral drugs and related medical kits.
Dr Ojukwu highlighted the enactment of Nigeria’s HIV/AIDS Anti-Discrimination Act in 2014 as a bold move aimed at eliminating discrimination against individuals living with HIV/AIDS. However, he noted that only 18 out of Nigeria’s 36 states have adopted the Act, highlighting a gap in full nationwide compliance. This stakeholder meeting aims to unify voices, reignite commitment, and bridge the gaps preventing the full implementation of the law.
Dr Chukwugozie Ujam, Deputy Director of Community and Prevention Care Services at NACA, also spoke on the agency’s achievements in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Ujam noted that Nigeria launched its treatment programme in 1986 and continues to support efforts to combat stigma and discrimination. Despite decades of awareness campaigns, misinformation still surrounds HIV/AIDS, emphasizing the need for continued education.
Ujam explained that AIDS has largely been brought under control in Nigeria, with prevalence rates dropping significantly. However, this progress has led to complacency, and NACA is now shifting its focus from treatment to prevention to avoid a resurgence of the disease. He stressed the importance of promoting local production of essential commodities and urged the government to create an enabling environment for local manufacturers.
Both agencies emphasized the importance of local production, suggesting public-private partnerships with international drug manufacturers to negotiate subsidies and reduce costs. Dr Ojukwu also proposed exploring alternative funding sources, highlighting the potential role of well-meaning individuals and philanthropists in supporting these initiatives.
Overall, the call for local production of HIV/AIDS drugs and kits aims to address the growing financial constraints resulting from reduced international support, ensuring the sustainability of Nigeria’s efforts in combating HIV/AIDS.