Nigeria recorded 20,838 new HIV infections between January and March 2026, with Lagos and Benue states emerging as the most affected, according to data from the National Data Repository.
Figures show Lagos reported the highest number of cases at 2,298, followed by Benue with 1,949, while Akwa Ibom recorded 1,159. Other states with significant numbers include Rivers (1,137), Anambra (1,013), Kaduna (842), Delta (803), Oyo (763) and Ogun (751). The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) logged 579 cases, while Abia (527) and Edo (512) also recorded notable figures. States such as Yobe (100) and Sokoto (110) reported the lowest numbers.
The data has renewed calls from religious leaders and HIV advocacy groups for stronger integration of HIV services into primary healthcare and improved access to new prevention technologies, including long-acting injectable treatments.
The Federal Government recently pledged $346 million in co-financing for 2026 to support interventions targeting HIV, tuberculosis and malaria. The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, said the funding would cover medical supplies, laboratory surveillance, reagents, and expansion of primary healthcare services, as well as financial protection for citizens. He added that the funds have been directed for inclusion in the 2026 national budget.
Health advocates say the HIV response in Nigeria is at a critical stage, citing declining funding, persistent stigma, and gaps in the healthcare system. Speaking at a multi-stakeholder dialogue themed Faith Forward: Reclaiming HIV in the Health Agenda, Most Revd Benebo Fubara of the Church Council of Nigeria warned that the situation remains urgent, particularly with rising vulnerability among young people.
The dialogue, organised by the World Council of Churches (WCC) in collaboration with NINERELA+ and supported by ViiV Healthcare, highlighted the need for faith-based and community-driven responses to tackle the epidemic.
Religious leaders also stressed the importance of eliminating stigma associated with HIV. Fuad Adeyemi, National Chief Imam of Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society, called for stronger partnerships between government and faith leaders to promote awareness and encourage treatment uptake.
Advocates, including Oluchi Ndubuisi of the International Community of Women Living with HIV West Africa, urged a unified approach to ensure access to prevention, care, and treatment services for all Nigerians.
Despite ongoing interventions, Nigeria continues to face a significant HIV burden, with tens of thousands of new infections recorded annually, underscoring the urgency of sustained funding, awareness, and inclusive healthcare strategies.
