According to the institute, more than 238,000 individuals currently receive free antiretroviral treatment (ART) in IHVN-supported facilities across the Federal Capital Territory, Nasarawa, Katsina, and Rivers States.
In a statement signed by the institute’s Senior Communications Manager, Uzoma Florence Nwofor, IHVN’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Patrick Dakum, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to providing uninterrupted, life-saving services to people living with HIV.
“We urge all individuals living with HIV to adhere strictly to their prescribed medications to maintain their health and support national efforts to combat AIDS,” Dr. Dakum said during a briefing in Abuja on Monday.
Comprehensive Free HIV Services
Dr. Dakum outlined the wide range of services now accessible at IHVN-supported health facilities. These include:
- Free HIV testing services;
- Antiretroviral therapy (ART) for adults and children;
- Laboratory diagnosis and monitoring; and
- Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) services for pregnant women.
In addition, the institute provides comprehensive HIV prevention programs, such as free Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV-negative pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers, and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) for individuals who may have been exposed to the virus.
“At no point were these life-saving services disrupted,” Dakum emphasized, underscoring the institute’s resilience and operational continuity.
Driving Sustainability and Local Ownership
The IHVN chief highlighted the institute’s role in promoting sustainability in Nigeria’s health programs through close collaboration with the government, international funders, and local stakeholders.
“Our goal is to test 95 percent of people living with HIV, initiate treatment for 95 percent of those who test positive, and achieve viral suppression in 95 percent of those on treatment,” Dakum said.
“By working together, we can ensure a healthier future for Nigerians.”
He noted that the Nigerian government is increasingly taking ownership of HIV programs through initiatives such as the inclusion of people living with HIV in health insurance, local production of HIV test kits, and preparations for the introduction of Lenacapavir, a new long-acting preventive injectable.
Community-Based Support and Empowerment
IHVN is also expanding outreach to communities through partnerships with faith-based organizations, local leaders, and peer support networks to strengthen mother-to-child prevention and adherence.
These include initiatives like the Group Mothers’ Love Gatherings, which provide medical care and support for pregnant and nursing mothers, and the Peer Mentor Mother Program, designed to empower women living with HIV to support others.
“These community programs enable caregivers and vulnerable groups, including children, adolescents, and young adults, to access comprehensive care packages that improve adherence, nutrition, and overall quality of life,” Dakum said.
Collaboration for Epidemic Control
Dr. Dakum called for continued collaboration among government agencies, civil society, the media, and people living with HIV, noting that such partnerships are key to sustaining gains made in epidemic control and strengthening national health systems.
IHVN’s HIV interventions are supported by the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) through the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The institute continues to work closely with the Nigerian government to sustain essential HIV services and achieve long-term epidemic control.
“By working together, stakeholders can ensure a healthier future and bring Nigeria closer to ending the HIV epidemic,” Dakum concluded.