By Ojoma Akor
The Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria (IHVN) says that an HIV-free nation would yield far-reaching benefits for the workforce and the economy.
Dr. Stanley Idakwo, Project Director of IHVN’s Action to Sustain Precision and Integrated HIV Response Towards Epidemic Control (ASPIRE) project, stated this during an interview with Health and Science Africa (HSA) in Abuja.
He said that in sectors such as agriculture, improved health outcomes mean more productive farmers, enhanced food security, and stronger rural development.
He also said that the ASPIRE project operating in Rivers State and other parts of the country is recording notable progress in the drive to control the HIV epidemic.
He said that the gains being recorded in Rivers State and other ASPIRE-supported states implemented by IHVN, point to a future where farmers and workers can contribute fully to national development without the burden of HIV-related illness.Top of Form
Dr. Idakwo said that achieving HIV epidemic control remains a critical national priority, not only to save lives but also to strengthen communities and stabilize Nigeria’s health and development systems.
According to him, a healthier population translates into greater productivity, improved livelihoods, and sustainable national growth.
The expert noted that in the technology sector, an HIV-free workforce would drive increased innovation and global competitiveness. With fewer sick days and reduced absenteeism, technology professionals would be better positioned to fuel economic growth, create jobs, and strengthen Nigeria’s presence on the global digital stage, he said.
He added that the healthcare sector would also benefit significantly.
“In an HIV-free nation, healthcare workers could redirect attention to other pressing health challenges, improving overall health outcomes. Facilities such as the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, which the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria’s ASPIRE Project supports, would experience reduced congestion, allowing medical resources to be deployed more efficiently,” he said.
Across all sectors, Dr. Idakwo said the ripple effects would be far-reaching, including higher productivity, lower healthcare costs, and a more stable, skilled workforce. These gains, he noted, would accelerate economic growth and position Nigeria to achieve its broader development goals.
Beyond the economy, the social impact of an HIV-free nation would be equally transformative. Families would be stronger, with fewer orphaned children and reduced financial strain. Drawing from IHVN’s community outreach experiences through the ASPIRE Project, Dr. Idakwo highlighted that stigma and discrimination are gradually declining as awareness and access to care improve.
He explained that ASPIRE’s programs promote inclusivity and social cohesion, particularly among children and adolescents, where the burden of HIV is steadily decreasing.
In Rivers State, he said, more children are staying in school, learning, and reaching their full potential. Gender equality would also be strengthened, as women—often disproportionately affected by HIV—gain greater autonomy and opportunities.
Dr. Idakwo further noted that eliminating HIV as a public health threat would positively reshape Nigeria’s cultural landscape, adding, “As HIV is no longer seen as a death sentence, social norms and practices are evolving toward healthier behaviors and relationships. Overall, he said, an HIV-free Nigeria would be more vibrant, hopeful, and resilient.”
Supported by PEPFAR through the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the ASPIRE Project works across four Nigerian states to advance HIV epidemic control by strengthening laboratory systems, expanding prevention and treatment services, improving quality of care, and delivering comprehensive, community-based support.
The Rivers State intervention began in 2019 after the 2018 NAIIS identified the state as a priority, with the highest unmet need for HIV services and a prevalence of 3.8%, well above the national average of 1.4%.
