A Nigerian female doctor has raised serious concern over a sharp increase in HIV cases in Lagos and Abuja, urging the public to get tested immediately regardless of their relationship status.
In a video that has gone viral on social media, the doctor warned that HIV is spreading faster than many people realize. She revealed that recent data presented at a closed-door medical symposium showed a disturbing rise in new cases, especially in Nigeria’s two largest cities.
According to her, hospitals across the country submitted their HIV records to an NGO that focuses on health data. The findings were shocking. While the prevalence rate was around 5% in 2020, it has reportedly jumped to over 75% in certain samples, raising fears that at least one in every ten people may now be living with HIV.
“This is not to scare anyone,” she said, “but to encourage everyone in any sexual relationship to go to a hospital and get tested for HIV immediately.”
The doctor also noted that protection, like condoms, may not always offer full safety. She highlighted that trust in a partner is not enough reason to avoid regular testing.
“You don’t know what your partner is doing. Even if you are married, it’s wise to get tested every six months. It’s better to know early,” she said.
She urged Nigerians to take the issue seriously and test regularly, especially before beginning any new sexual relationship.
“Please go to the nearest laboratory. Go and test for HIV. If you don’t have it, be careful. If you do, early treatment is important,” she added.
She said the figures shared during the doctors’ event were based on actual data and evidence, not rumours or fearmongering.
Health authorities have also echoed her concerns, saying more awareness and testing are needed to prevent further spread of the virus, especially in urban areas where casual and unprotected sex is more common.
As of the time of this report, health authorities have yet to release updated national figures, but independent health workers are calling for urgent action.