The Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in Nigeria’s HIV response, confirming that all pregnant women in its care have delivered HIV-free babies. This unprecedented success was announced during the opening of the 7th National Council on AIDS meeting in Lagos.
For four consecutive years, every participant in NIMR’s Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) program has given birth to an HIV-negative child, according to Professor John Obafunwa, NIMR’s Director-General.
Dr. Oliver Ezechi, Director of Research, attributes this achievement to implementing internationally proven scientific protocols. The program’s effectiveness is visibly demonstrated by the institute’s nearly empty pediatric HIV clinic.
While celebrating this medical breakthrough, health officials acknowledged ongoing challenges in Nigeria’s HIV response. Significant barriers include high rates of undiagnosed cases, patient dropouts from treatment programs, and financial hardships that prevent consistent care access.
Many patients struggle with transportation costs and unemployment, highlighting the need for enhanced social support systems.
The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) is responding with a new sustainability initiative aimed at reducing dependence on foreign donors.
The plan focuses on three key areas: integrating HIV treatment into national health insurance schemes, developing local pharmaceutical production capabilities, and creating sustainable domestic funding mechanisms.
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Despite progress across West and Central Africa, UNICEF reports indicate current efforts may fall short of global targets to eliminate AIDS by 2030.
Experts emphasise that expanding treatment for all HIV-positive pregnant and breastfeeding women remains crucial to preventing new childhood infections.
NIMR’s accomplishment serves as both an inspiration and a challenge for Nigeria’s healthcare system, proving that eliminating vertical HIV transmission is possible with proper protocols and commitment.
The next phase requires scaling this success nationwide while addressing systemic issues of healthcare access and economic support for vulnerable populations.
