The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has called on the Federal Government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to channel investments into the local production of drugs as a strategy to combat the threat posed by HIV/AIDS.
The ACPN argues that this move is crucial for reducing Nigeria’s reliance on external donors for vital HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment efforts.
Pharmacist Ambrose Ezeh, the ACPN National Chairman, issued this advisory in a statement released to mark World HIV/AIDS Day.
The statement noted the gravity of the situation, revealing that Nigeria recorded an estimated 1,400 new HIV infections in 2023 alone.
Ezeh highlighted a recent shift in global support, explaining that a “recent cut in funding support from the United States Government should prompt the Federal Government to take decisive action to tackle HIV/AIDS in the country.” He issued a clear warning that the reduction in external financing makes a stronger, internal commitment absolutely essential.
READ ALSO: NAFDAC Withdraws 101 Pharmaceutical Products from Nigerian Market
Emphasizing the history of perseverance in the fight against the disease, Ezeh stated: “The recent cut in funding support from the United States Government should awaken the Federal Government of Nigeria to take decisive action. The HIV response has historically been characterised by resilience, rising above challenges through innovation, partnerships, and persistent advocacy.”
The ACPN Chairman then issued a “direct call for government investment in local manufacturing of antiretrovirals, diagnostic kits, and consumables to ensure sustainability, reduce external dependency, and safeguard uninterrupted service delivery.”