Nigeria Sets Aside $346 Million to Fight HIV and Tuberculosis

By Igwe Grace 

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a $346 million budget to support the fight against HIV and tuberculosis in 2026.The funding, revealed by Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Health, is part of efforts to improve healthcare services, increase accountability, and strengthen the country’s response to both diseases.

As part of the plan, the government has introduced a new HIV prevention drug called Lenacapavir. The injection, taken twice a year, will be provided free, especially for people at higher risk of infection.

Health officials also reported a rise in tuberculosis cases, with about 440,000 cases recorded in 2025, compared to around 138,000 in 2020. Despite the increase, treatment success remains high at 94 percent. Health Minister Muhammad Pate said: “By aligning resources across all levels of government and working with partners in a coordinated manner, we are building a system that is efficient, effective, and capable of ending TB and HIV.”

Experts, including the World Health Organization, say Nigeria remains one of the countries most affected by tuberculosis and has called for improved testing and wider access to treatment. The government believes the new investment will help reduce infections and strengthen the country’s healthcare system.