Nigeria records 20,838 new HIV cases In first quarter of 2026
A total of 20,838 new Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infections were recorded between January and March 2026, with Lagos and Benue states reporting the highest numbers.
Lagos accounted for 2,298 cases, followed by Benue with 1,949.
Akwa Ibom also reported 1,159 cases, while Rivers recorded 1,137. Anambra posted 1,013 infections and Kaduna recorded 842 cases.
Also, the Federal Government (FG) announced $346 million in co financing for 2026 to strengthen interventions against HIV, tuberculosis and malaria.
The funding will support medical supplies, laboratory surveillance, reagents, expansion of primary healthcare and financial protection for citizens.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, stated that Nigeria is increasingly focusing on domestic funding amid constrained global health financing.
He highlighted the importance of innovation and efficiency and cited advancements such as Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable for HIV prevention.
