By: Erewunmi Peace

Nigeria’s efforts to combat HIV/AIDS received a major boost as the United States Senate rejected proposed budget cuts from former President Donald Trump that would have slashed critical international aid, including the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).

What Happened?

Earlier this month, Trump-backed lawmakers introduced a $400 million cut targeting various global aid programs — including PEPFAR, which plays a vital role in fighting HIV/AIDS in over 50 countries. Nigeria, one of the largest recipients of this support, stood to lose significant funding.

But on Tuesday, the U.S. Senate voted to exclude PEPFAR from the rescission package, protecting funds that have saved millions of lives in sub-Saharan Africa.

Why It Matters for Nigeria

PEPFAR contributes nearly 90% of Nigeria’s HIV funding, supporting:

Free antiretroviral medications

HIV testing and counseling

Prevention programs for vulnerable groups

Maternal and child health initiatives

Health experts warned that the proposed cuts would have reversed decades of progress in Nigeria’s fight against HIV, potentially putting thousands of lives at risk.

Reactions

Health advocates in Nigeria and across Africa celebrated the Senate’s decision.

“PEPFAR has kept over a million Nigerians alive. Losing that support would have been catastrophic,” said Dr. Kemi Ajayi, a public health analyst in Lagos.

U.S. senators from both political parties also defended the program.

“Cutting PEPFAR would not only harm vulnerable people, it would damage America’s global leadership,” Senator Lisa Murkowski said during the debate.

Since its launch in 2003, PEPFAR has provided over $110 billion in global HIV/AIDS support, saving more than 25 million lives. Nigeria remains a top beneficiary of the program, with hundreds of local clinics, NGOs, and health workers depending on its annual funding.

While the bill must still pass through the U.S. House of Representatives and receive presidential approval, observers are optimistic that the final package will keep HIV/AIDS funding intact.