UNAIDS Reports 77,000 New HIV Infections and 43,000 Deaths in Nigeria in 2022

• UNAIDS reports 77,000 new HIV infections and 43,000 AIDS-related deaths in Nigeria for 2022, emphasizing the importance of prevention.
• The World AIDS Day commemoration highlights the role of communities in leading the HIV response, with a joint plan in place.

In 2022, Nigeria witnessed 77,000 new HIV infections and 43,000 AIDS-related deaths, according to the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS). Doris Ogbang, the National Programme officer of the organization, revealed these figures during the World AIDS Day (WAD) commemoration in Abuja.

Of the new HIV infections, 60% affected females, 40% males, 29% children, and 17% young people aged 15-24. Nigeria currently has 1.9 million people living with HIV, comprising 1.8 million adults (92%) and 160,000 children (8%).

Globally, an estimated 1.3 million new HIV infections occurred in 2022, with 46% affecting females and 54% males. Ogbang stressed the importance of addressing inequalities, combating stigma and discrimination against those with the disease, and prioritizing HIV prevention, integration, and sustainability in the response.

Dr. Leo Zekeng, the UNAIDS Country Representative (represented by the Senior Strategic Information Adviser), emphasized the pivotal role of communities in leading the HIV response in Nigeria. The theme of World AIDS Day this year is dedicated to community-led efforts. The UN joint team in the country, comprising 11 agencies, has a joint plan to support the AIDS response from 2024 to 2025, with $800,000 mobilized to achieve these goals.

First Lady Remi Tinubu Calls for Renewed Efforts Against HIV/AIDS

Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady, emphasized the need for continued efforts in the fight against HIV/AIDS, acknowledging progress while pointing out that much more needs to be done. She addressed the High-Level Pre-Conference Meeting of the 22nd International Conference on AIDS and STI in Africa (ICASA), organized by the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) with the theme “AIDS is not over; Address inequalities, accelerate inclusion and innovation.”

Despite the challenges faced in achieving complete success, Senator Tinubu expressed hope and highlighted the country’s population of over 200 million as a significant challenge in combating the scourge. She noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda has rekindled hope in all aspects of life, including the fight against HIV/AIDS.