FG commits $346 million to HIV, tuberculosis, malaria programmes in 2026

The Federal Government has committed $346 million in co-financing for HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria programmes in 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s health response.

This was disclosed by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Ali Pate, during the national launch of Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable for HIV prevention, in Abuja.

The funding, approved by President Bola Tinubu, is expected to be captured in the 2026 national budget.

Pate said the funding reflects Nigeria’s growing commitment to domestic financing of critical health programmes.

Pate noted that Nigeria is adjusting to declining global health funding by strengthening local financing.

He added that Nigeria’s long-term goal was to reduce dependence on external funding and increase domestic ownership of health programmes.

He added that more than 90% of Nigeria’s health spending is already domestically financed, while external funding plays a catalytic role.

Pate also called on civil society and stakeholders to ensure that allocated funds were not only approved but also released and effectively utilised.

Minister of State for Health, Dr Iziaq Salako, said Nigeria has recorded strong progress in HIV response indicators.

The Permanent Secretary, Ms Daju Kachollom, also noted that the introduction of the injectable marks a major step forward in expanding HIV prevention options.

Nigeria has recently received Long-Acting Injectable Lenacapavir for HIV prevention, marking a new phase in the country’s response to the disease.

Lenacapavir is a long-acting injectable antiretroviral administered twice yearly for HIV prevention among high-risk individuals. It is to be administered once every six months as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and offers an alternative to daily oral pills, particularly for individuals who struggle with adherence.