The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has teamed up with the National Assembly, USAID, and Jhpiego to ensure the sustainability of the progress made in the HIV response beyond 2030.
Speaking on Sunday at the conclusion of the two-day retreat in Lagos themed, “Leadership for the Sustainability of the HIV Response: The Role of the Legislative,” Dr Temitope Ilori, Director General of NACA, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to leading efforts to accelerate the decline of new HIV infections in Nigeria.
Dr Ilori advocated for an integrated approach that fosters synergy and maximizes health benefits.
“We are here today to continue our efforts toward eradicating HIV/AIDS by 2030. We are re-energized in our commitment to addressing HIV/AIDS issues alongside the legislators present, aiming to facilitate an efficient and sustainable response in Nigeria,” she said.
In his remarks, Dr Leo Zekeng, the Country Director of UNAIDS, urged the leadership of the House of Representatives to intensify efforts and legislate for better resource allocation.
Dr Zekeng emphasized the need for increased awareness and improved accountability in managing resources to effectively address major health challenges.
He believes that Nigeria’s success in combating HIV/AIDS will significantly impact the overall success of the African continent.
While addressing participants at the retreat, Oniyire Adetiloye, a seasoned Public Health Specialist and Country Director of Jhpiego, called for an integrated approach to ensure patients receive the best solutions for these health issues.
Adetiloye highlighted Jhpiego’s longstanding commitment to tackling HIV/AIDS, reaching millions of Nigerian women, men, and children since 1978.
He noted that over 2.6 million people have received HIV testing services, with more than 74,000 newly identified as HIV-positive and over 72,000 linked to care and treatment.
In his remarks, Godwin Amobi, Chairman of the House Committee on AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, emphasized the need to address gender and human rights barriers, as well as domestic financing, to advance the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Amobi acknowledged the significant work still needed but viewed the summit as a positive step forward.
He encouraged continued engagement between NACA and the legislature to develop effective responses for eliminating HIV/AIDS and suggested dedicating one per cent of consolidated national funds to managing the disease.
“Government must take the lead by providing the needed funds. NACA must also be improved upon to become a multi-sectoral agency to fight HIV/AIDS better,” he said.
He emphasized that the committee will insist on full accountability for all funds to ensure transparency and support the renewed hope agenda of President Tinubu’s administration.
Amobi also called for additional capacity-building retreats to help legislators stay informed about best global practices. He urged strict measures against stigma and discrimination, particularly in workplaces.
Participants at the retreat attended various sessions where speakers discussed the national HIV response, relevant statistics, and the goals of the sustainability agenda.