The Nigerian Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China-based WONDFO BIOTECH Ltd. to begin local production of HIV diagnostic kits, a step in enhancing Nigeria’s healthcare capabilities and fighting the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
The MoU, announced yesterday in Abuja by the Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Dr. Temitope Ilori, aims to ensure the country’s self-sufficiency in HIV testing and related reagents.
Dr. Ilori praised the initiative, which aligns with President Tinubu’s “value chain initiative” to bolster domestic manufacturing of essential medical supplies. “We look forward to seeing your domestic plants here in Nigeria,” she said, noting that WONDFO’s contribution included 4,000 test kits to mark World AIDS Day.
The kits are designed for both self-testing and professional use, helping to improve access to reliable HIV testing across the country.
Mr. Bravo Ouhabru, WONDFO’s Country Representative, stated the importance of knowing one’s HIV status. “Knowing one’s HIV status is the first step toward effective management and prevention,” he explained.
Ouhabru also revealed plans to make test kits available at subsidised rates through private pharmacies, further expanding access to HIV testing.
With Nigeria having one of the highest HIV burdens globally, this partnership is a crucial move to support prevention efforts and move towards the goal of ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030.
Despite progress, Nigeria still has about 1.8 million people living with HIV, with young people particularly vulnerable.
