Health
Lagos Records Highest Number of Reported HIV Cases in Nigeria
Lagos State has recorded the highest number of reported HIV cases in Nigeria, according to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare's State of the Health of the Nation Report 2025.
The report indicates that 10,430 HIV cases were recorded in Lagos in 2025, the highest among Nigeria's 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Rivers State followed with 6,287 cases, while Kano recorded 6,106. Other states with high numbers included Akwa Ibom, Taraba, Benue and Anambra.
However, the Lagos State Government clarified that the figure represents the number of people diagnosed through expanded HIV testing services, not necessarily the number of new infections. Officials explained that the state's large population and improved access to testing contributed to the high number of reported cases.
Health experts also caution that reported case numbers should not be mistaken for HIV prevalence, as population size, urbanisation and testing coverage significantly influence the number of diagnoses recorded.
The latest figures highlight the importance of sustained investment in HIV prevention, testing, treatment and public awareness to reduce transmission and improve access to care across Nigeria.
