3.4million Nigerians are living with HIV – Health Minister

The Minister of State for Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire on Tuesday disclosed that Nigeria contributes 3.4million to the global population of 36.9million persons living with HIV/AIDS.
Speaking at a press briefing held in Abuja to mark the 2015 World AIDS Day, the minister revealed that Nigeria is currently treating about 800,000 people living with the virus with antiretroviral drugs.
He pointed out that this figure is expected to increase significantly as the country implements 2014 treatment guidelines.
The Minister, was however elated with the fact that HIV prevalence among youths (15-24years) has shown a consistent decline from 6.0% in the year 2001 to 2.9% in 2014. He said this is suggestive of a reduction in new infections and an indication that the health sector interventions are having positive impact.
He then stressed the importance of a multi-sectoral approach to HIV/AIDS through active participation of all stakeholders including Civil Society Organisations, Private sector, Faith-based organisations, communities and people living with HIV and AIDS.
In her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr. Amina Shamaki stated that with the support of partners, Nigeria has been able to provide prevention, care and treatment services to a large number of Nigerians but there is still a lot of grounds to cover.
The World Health Organization, WHO, Country representative, Dr. Gama Vas, in his goodwill message, explained that this year’s commemoration was to ensure that in the next five years, 90% of infected persons know their status, and 90% of those diagnosed with HIV are offered antiretroviral therapy and that 90% of people living with HIV and on treatment, achieve viral load suppression.