Nigeria is one of the countries with the highest HIV prevalence in Africa
Now, the nation faces potential health crisis due to the reduction in international funding for free HIV treatment.
Reports indicate that HIV drugs could soon cost 3 million naira for just 30 days of treatment.
Also, this makes it nearly impossible for the vast majority of Nigerians living with the virus to afford life-saving medications.
This drastic increase in treatment costs follows U.S. President Donald Trump‘s decision to cut funding for HIV programs in Nigeria.
However, with funding cuts and rising medication costs, millions are at risk of treatment interruptions, leading to severe health complications and increased transmission rates.
One of the most alarming consequences of cutting free HIV funding is the likelihood of a surge in new infections.
Without access to affordable treatment and prevention methods like pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and condoms, the virus could spread rapidly, especially among high-risk populations.
Beyond the health implications, the financial burden on individuals and families will be devastating.
The cost of HIV treatment, 3 million naira per month will push many into financial ruin.
Also, this will force them to choose between basic necessities and life-saving medication.
The economic impact will extend beyond households.
It will affect the nation’s workforce as more people may fall sick and become unable to contribute productively to society.
A weaker workforce, coupled with rising healthcare costs, could cripple the Nigerian economy.
The strain on Nigeria’s already fragile healthcare system is another major concern.
The country is still recovering from past outbreaks of Ebola and COVID-19, and now faces the rapid spread of the mpox virus, which has been declared a public health emergency.
People Also Read: FULL LIST: U.S Govt Identifies Over 3,690 Nigerians For Deportation As Trump Begins Crackdown
With HIV treatment becoming unaffordable for many, hospitals may see a rise in AIDS-related illnesses and opportunistic infections.
