The Adamawa State Agency for the Control of AIDS (ADSACA) has revealed that over 8,850 new HIV infections were recorded in the state between 2022 and 2025, sparking growing concern about the rise in new cases despite ongoing awareness efforts.
Speaking during a media engagement in Yola, the agency’s Director of Research, Monitoring, and Evaluation, Mr. Abdullahi Adamu, described the trend as worrying and called for renewed public action to curb the spread.
HIV Infections on the Rise Across Adamawa
According to ADSACA data, HIV cases have been increasing gradually over the past four years:
- 2022: Over 2,700 new infections
- 2023: More than 2,500 cases
- 2024: 2,227 new infections
- January–June 2025: Already 1,423 new infections
Adamu said the numbers indicate a steady upward trend, even with preventive measures available. He emphasized the need to rethink current HIV prevention strategies and boost public awareness campaigns.
“We must restrategise and adopt new approaches that deepen awareness and promote prevention,” Adamu said. “Preventive options such as abstinence, consistent condom use, and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) exist, but many people are not using them effectively.”
Treatment Progress and Challenges
Adamu disclosed that more than 40,000 people living with HIV are currently receiving treatment across Adamawa State, with about 93% achieving viral suppression — meaning they can no longer transmit the virus.
However, he lamented that 400 HIV-related deaths were recorded in 2024, highlighting the need for continuous medication adherence and regular testing.
The agency also urged pregnant women to register for antenatal care, warning that failure to do so could increase mother-to-child transmission. In 2024 alone, 180 new infections were detected among pregnant women who began antenatal treatment.
State and National Agencies Push for Local Ownership
The North-East Zonal Coordinator of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Mr. John Tobias, also called for Nigerians to take greater ownership of the country’s HIV response.
He revealed that donor funding, especially from the United States Government, had been reduced following a stop-work order earlier in 2025 — a move that has limited Nigeria’s capacity to provide HIV care and treatment.
“This is a wake-up call for us to take responsibility for our own health,” Tobias said. “If everyone living with HIV is identified and placed on treatment, transmission will stop. Ending HIV by 2030 is achievable, but only if we act now.”
Media and Public Awareness Remain Key
Both officials called on journalists and media organizations to play active roles in public sensitization. They emphasized that continuous education and positive behavioral change are essential to ending new infections across the state.
The Adamawa government has already procured over 40,000 HIV testing kits, urging residents to take advantage of free testing available at public health facilities and community centers.
Experts maintain that early testing, treatment adherence, and reducing stigma remain the best ways to prevent further infections and move closer to an AIDS-free generation in Nigeria.
FAQs
1. How many new HIV infections were recorded in Adamawa between 2022 and 2025?
A total of 8,850 new cases were reported during this four-year period.
2. What are the main causes of the rising HIV trend?
Experts cite low awareness, inconsistent condom use, and poor adherence to preventive practices as key drivers.
3. Are treatments available for people living with HIV in Adamawa?
Yes. Over 40,000 people are currently receiving treatment, with about 93% achieving viral suppression.
4. How can mother-to-child HIV transmission be prevented?
Through regular antenatal care, early testing, and immediate treatment for pregnant women living with HIV.
5. What is Nigeria’s goal for HIV eradication?
The country aims to end new HIV infections by 2030 through improved awareness, treatment, and self-owned healthcare systems.
What do you think about Adamawa’s rising HIV numbers? Should the government do more to strengthen prevention and education efforts? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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