By Olanrewaju Akojede
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.
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.
“Nigeria made a bold move in 2014 by enacting the HIV/AIDS Anti-Discrimination Act. Ten years on, we had hoped to have achieved the objectives of the law,” he said.
“However, as of now, only 18 out of Nigeria’s 36 states have adopted the Act.
“Its primary purpose was to eliminate discrimination against individuals living with HIV/AIDS, particularly in workplaces, healthcare facilities, and public spaces,” Ojukwu added.
He noted that in spite of the progress, full nationwide compliance with the law was still lacking.
“This is the reason for this stakeholder meeting—to unify voices, reignite commitment, and bridge the gaps preventing the full implementation of the law.
“Where amendments are needed, we will discuss them. Our goal is zero discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS,” he said.
Ojukwu further explained that the engagement presented an opportunity to address the growing financial constraints resulting from the reduction in international support.
“With this kind of gathering, it’s time to reflect on the situation. We must begin to look inward and prioritise local production of drugs.
“Where local manufacturing is not yet feasible, the government should support research into new drug development,” he said.
He also proposed public-private partnerships with international drug manufacturers to negotiate subsidies and reduce costs.
“There are many creative approaches we can take, including identifying alternative sources of funding,” Ojukwu added.
“There are many creative ways to explore alternative sources of funding,” he said.
Ojukwu added, “In Nigeria, we have well-meaning individuals who are capable of covering some of these costs. It is not mandatory that all funding must come from America or other Western countries.
“We have philanthropists who can support these initiatives.
“It’s simply a matter of creating awareness—once people understand the needs, they will be more likely to redirect their resources toward them.
“If we create more awareness, more Nigerians will see this as a viable area where they can channel their efforts and resources,” said Ojukwu.
According to him, the government also needs to step up its commitment by increasing the percentage of funding allocated to health.
“If we take responsibility and act accordingly, our reliance on foreign aid can be significantly reduced.”
Ojukwu emphasised that anti-discrimination efforts should not rest solely on the Federal Government.
“The state governments have their roles too. Currently, only 18 out of the 36 states have adopted the anti-discrimination law. The remaining states must follow suit,” he said.
“We want the public to know that the NHRC is ready to provide the necessary leadership among stakeholders to make the anti-discrimination law a reality.”
Dr Chukwugozie Ujam, Deputy Director of Community and Prevention Care Services at the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), also spoke on the agency’s achievements in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
“After years of battling HIV/AIDS since its discovery in the early 1980s, Nigeria launched its treatment programme in 1986,” he said.
“We have continued to support all efforts in this fight, and our participation in this conference reflects our ongoing commitment to combating stigma and discrimination.”
According to Ujam, misinformation still surrounds HIV/AIDS in spite of decades of awareness campaigns.
“People living with HIV/AIDS should be able to access care free of stigma and discrimination.
“Nigeria has signed an agreement on anti-discrimination laws, but societal behaviour still needs to align with these laws,” he explained.
“Many actions that people may think are normal actually constitute discrimination. Identifying and addressing such behaviours through education is key.”
Ujam, who spoke.on its progress said, “AIDS has largely been brought under control in Nigeria, and prevalence rates had dropped significantly.
“However, this progress has led to complacency. We must continue emphasising abstinence, protection, and preventive measures.”
He reiterated that NACA was shifting focus from treatment to prevention to avoid a resurgence of the disease.
“We have moved past the initial treatment phase. Now, we’re prioritising prevention to further reduce new infections and maintain the gains we have made.”
Ujam also stressed the importance of promoting local production of essential commodities.
“We partner with agencies like NAFDAC, the Laboratory Council of Nigeria, and the Manufacturers Association to ensure local production—not just of antiretroviral drugs but also testing kits,” he said.
“By doing so, we can sustain the treatment program, boost local manufacturing, and create jobs. It’s a win-win situation.”
He urged the government to create an enabling environment for local manufacturers.
“Even offering rebates for the importation of raw materials could make a big difference,” he said.
“We’ve conducted studies and know that empowering local production of antiretroviral drugs and related medical supplies is crucial to sustaining the fight against HIV/AIDS,” Ujam added.
“With a decline in donor funding—especially from sources like the U.S.—Nigeria must take ownership. We may not be infected, but we are all affected by the virus’s spread.”
He stressed that the Ministry of Health had increased its funding for disease control, aiming to improve treatment for both communicable and non-communicable diseases across the country. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa
