The House of Representatives has resolved to
investigate the utilization of grants provided by the United States Agency
for International Development (USAID) and the Global Fund to fight HIV/AIDS,
Tuberculosis, and Malaria in Nigeria.
Lawmakers argued that despite years of substantial
foreign aid, the funds have failed to reduce high mortality rates from
the three diseases, raising concerns about accountability and the effectiveness
of current intervention strategies.
In a motion adopted on the floor, the House warned
that without urgent oversight and a reevaluation of Nigeria’s response
strategy, the nation risks missing the United Nations Sustainable
Development Goal (SDG) target of ending epidemics of HIV, TB, and malaria
by 2030.
The lawmakers cited data showing that Nigeria
accounts for 31% of global malaria deaths and ranks first in Africa and
sixth globally for tuberculosis cases. They also noted that the U.S.
President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) contributed $6
billion to support HIV/AIDS treatment and strengthen the health system.
“Despite these significant investments, Nigeria
remains burdened by public health challenges, including 51,000 AIDS-related
deaths in 2023, ranking third globally,” the motion stated.
The House mandated its Committee on HIV/AIDS,
Tuberculosis, and Malaria to investigate the use of the grants and
report back within one month with recommendations for possible
legislative action.
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