HIV Infection Data in Nigeria
Lagos State has recorded the highest number of new HIV infections in Nigeria for 2025, according to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare’s latest “State of the Health of the Nation” report. Out of 102,025 new cases nationwide, Lagos accounted for 10,430 infections. Rivers State followed with 6,287 cases, and Kano reported 6,106.
The report underscores a persistent geographical spread of the virus. In response, the Federal Executive Council has approved measures to bolster treatment, including the procurement of antiretroviral drugs. Iziaq Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, confirmed that the government maintains a policy of providing free treatment, supported by the international distribution of lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable prevention medicine.
Repatriation from South Africa
Simultaneously, Lagos remains a primary transit point for citizens returning from abroad. On Tuesday, a repatriation flight carrying 269 Nigerians arrived in the state, fleeing a wave of anti-immigrant violence in South Africa. The returnees were prompted to leave following threats from local groups who issued a June 30 deadline for undocumented foreigners to depart.
Ambassador Haruna Ali-Gombe, Director of African Affairs at Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that the government is actively engaging with South African authorities regarding the safety and welfare of Nigerian nationals. More than 600 Nigerians have been repatriated this month alone, with further flights expected as the situation remains volatile.